This blog post is not in any way meant to diagnose or treat depression. If you feel that you, or someone you know, may be suffering from this disease, please seek professional medical assistance.

At times, everyone feels a little blue; there are days that seem impossible to get through or even days that you don’t want to even get out of bed. Depression goes beyond this periodic sadness. It is not something that you can just “snap out of”. It is an illness that is actually very common but is often misunderstood or missed in the diagnosis.

Signs of Depression

When the signs of depression last longer than 2 weeks, you should consider seeking the advice of your family doctor. Symptoms include feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, changes in sleeping or eating patterns, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Although not all people who are depressed are suicidal, it is believed that all those who are suicidal are depressed. If you have ever considered, tried to plan, or thought about suicide, you should seek outside help. You can contact a doctor, health care provider, someone from your faith community, going into the hospital emergency room or calling a crisis line are all excellent forms of help available in all communities.

Prevention
Although there’s no sure fire medical way to prevent depression, there are things you can do today that help to reduce your susceptibility. Having the social support of friends and family go a long way, especially in times of crisis, in helping you to weather any difficult times you may encounter. Knowing the signs of depression and seeking medical attention immediately can also be beneficial. Physical activity has also been shown to reduce the symptoms of depression.

Coping with Depression

Alongside of medication and other types of therapy, there are other coping mechanisms that you may find useful as well such as looking for ways to simplify your life. This could be cutting back on the number or days you work or even learning how to say no to people who ask you for assistance in other areas of your life. Keeping a diary or journal is an excellent way of helping you to express your feelings and reducing the amount of stress you feel from those feelings. Stay active – both physically and emotionally. Isolation can worsen any depressive feelings you may have.

Alternative Medication

If you are concerned about taking anti depressants, you could talk to your doctor about alternative medicine. Probably the most renowned supplement for depression is St John’s wort which has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments including mild depression. Omega 3, whether taken by supplement or by eating foods high in the Omega 3 Fatty Acids such as salmon, flaxseed and other seafood can also be beneficial.

Therapists

There are many types of therapists that are available to help you fight your battle with Depression, and choosing the correct one can be a tall task.

Family or General Practitioners are often where most people start. They have general training, and some may have special training in behavioural therapy. They are generally easy to access.

Clinical Psychologists have University degrees in Psychology. They are often available through public services (check under Mental Health in your local phone book) or through private practices. The cost is generally high unless you are visiting under the public service.

Psychiatrists have general medical training and specialized training in psychiatry. Again, they can be accessed through public services and through private practices.

Alternative Therapists: There are many other types of therapists that may be of assistance to you. You can generally find additional information through your alternative heath practitioner to find out what is available in your area.