Depression
Unfortunately, with today’s economic climate, you may find yourself struggling and feeling down. But keep in mind that feeling down doesn’t necessarily mean that you have depression. Depression is more than just feeling ‘down’. It is a serious illness caused by changes in brain chemistry which not only affects your brain, but also your thoughts, emotions, behaviours and overall physical health.
Some of the most common symptoms that point to the presence of depression include:
- Feelings: Sadness, hopelessness, guilt, moodiness, angry outbursts, loss of interest in friends, family and favourite activities, including sex
- Thoughts: Trouble concentrating, making decisions and remembering, thoughts of harming yourself, delusions and/or hallucinations can also occur in cases of severe depression
- Behaviour: Withdrawing from people, substance abuse, missing work, school or other commitments, attempts to harm yourself
- Physical problems: Tiredness or lack of energy, unexplained aches and pains, changes in appetite, weight loss, weight gain, changes in sleep – sleeping too little or too much.
What can you do about it?
The first step is to recognise that you may need help from a friend, family member or professional. Recovering from depression requires action, but taking action when you’re depressed is hard.
Try some of the following suggestions as your first steps:
- Ask a loved one to check in with you regularly
- Get moving: When you’re depressed, just getting out of bed can seem like a daunting task, let alone exercising, but exercise is a powerful tool for dealing with depression
- Do things that make you feel good: Aim for eight hours of sleep, expose yourself to a little sunlight every day and practice relaxation techniques
- Eat a healthy, mood-boosting diet. What you eat has a direct impact on the way you feel. Aim for a balanced diet of protein, complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables. Reduce your intake of foods that can adversely affect your brain and mood, such as caffeine, alcohol, trans fats, saturated fats, and foods with high levels of chemical preservatives or hormones. Don’t skip meals.
When and where do I get professional help?
If you find your depression getting worse, seek professional help.
Seeking additional help doesn’t mean that you’re weak. Depression can be treated and you can feel better. Start by making an appointment with your GP today. Our Call Centre can advise you how Anglo Medical Scheme funds consultations and treatment, i.e. medication. For more information about depression and how to help yourself or somebody else, contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 567 567 or 011 234 4837, SMS 31393 (they will call you back) or visit their website www.sadag.org.
For more understanding around Mental Health read this informative booklet.