I am a firm believer, obviously, in thinking positive to improve your mood and outlook. It would, however, be irresponsible of me to say that thinking positive is a fix it for everything. There are times when you need to talk to a professional. Depression is a real illness, and like all illnesses, if you are suffering from depression, you should seek the help of a medical professional.
Everybody goes through ups and downs and has mood swings, but when your downs become so overwhelming and consume your life, it is time to seek help. Some symptoms of depression are:
Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. A bleak outlook—nothing will ever get better and there’s nothing you can do to improve your situation.
Loss of interest in daily activities. No interest in or ability to enjoy former hobbies, pastimes, social activities, or sex.
Appetite or weight changes. Significant weight loss or weight gain—a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month.
Sleep changes. Either insomnia, especially waking in the early hours of the morning, or oversleeping (also known as hypersomnia).
Psychomotor agitation or retardation. Either feeling “keyed up” and restless or sluggish and physically slowed down.
Loss of energy. Feeling fatigued and physically drained. Even small tasks are exhausting or take longer.
Self-loathing. Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Harsh criticism of perceived faults and mistakes.
Concentration problems. Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
If you feel that you are suffering from depression and not just the normal every day blues, please talk to a medical professional.
I am going through this now and really appreciate the positive daily thought emails. Sometimes they sink and sometimes they don’t at all or I think “yeah, right. For everyone else, but not me.” I am currently being treated, but it’s been a rough road. But there is no reason to stop trying and I keep reading. I liked todays a lot!!!