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'Alone' in the Country The holidays are over. Whether you had a great time celebrating or events didn't quite live up to your expectations, you might feel a bit down during these dark, cold days of winter. How can you tell if you're dealing with a slight case of "the blues," or perhaps suffering from depression? There are tell-tale signs. Depression Checklist Symptoms of depression may include:
The most obvious cause of depression is "situational depression," which occurs when you experience a traumatic life event like the death of a loved one, marital problems or divorce, or financial difficulties. Depression can also be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters—chemicals in the brain that affect how you feel. Sometimes depression is a side effect of an illness or medication. If you experience depression, your doctor will seek to determine the cause before starting treatment. How can You Help? If you see signs of depression in someone close to you, say something like, "You've seemed down for the last few weeks. Do you want to talk about it?" If the person has experienced a traumatic event in his or her life recently, you might add, "You've certainly been through some tough times lately!" If you think the person would benefit by talking with a professional, approach the subject by saying, "A professional could help you by suggesting steps you could take to feel better. I'll go with you if you'd like." People are often reluctant to admit they need professional help, so you might have to suggest it several times before the person seeks help. If you have experienced depression, consider sharing your experience and what you did to resolve it. Reassure the person that seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness, but a step toward getting well. What to do Right Now The following suggestions can help resolve symptoms of depression, as well as improve your mood if you are experiencing "the blues."
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