Depression

The blues and the blahs — everybody gets them sometime. There is no more common problem. It can range from a feeling of no energy all the way to such an overwhelming sense of unhappiness and defeat that ending it all seems the only way out.

Depression may appear to be simple fatigue or a general feeling of ill health. You just don't feel good, and you may not know the reason why. The future may seem to hold no promise. There is a sense of loss: a feeling of defeat or of having lost something—or someone—important.

In medical terms, most depression is "reactive," meaning that it is a reaction to an unhappy event. It is natural to have some as a death of a friend or relative, or after a significant disappointment at home or work.

Drugs may cause depression. Tranquilizers, high blood pressure medicines, steroids (prednisone, etc.), codeine, and indomethacin are often culprits.

Time and activity take care of most depression. After all, life has its ups as well as its downs; happiness also is inevitable. But if the depression is so great as to disrupt your work or family life for a substantial period of time, put a time limit on it by making an appointment.

Suicidal Feelings

If the problem is so severe that suicide has been considered, do not hesitate to call immediately and get help. If you have no doctor or you prefer to find help elsewhere, many communities have telephone hotlines for such situations – ours is 575-526-3371.

Try at Home

Activity, both mental and physical, has long been recognized as the natural antidote for depression. Regular exercise is as effective in mild depression as the drugs usually prescribed by doctors. Make a plan for activity that includes regular exercise. Stay involved with others and let them support you. Decrease your use of alcohol and other drugs. Make a point of telling someone about your problems. Getting them out is a relief, and there may be some suggestions that the listener can make to ease the burden.

Seeking Treatment

The professional will explore the issues and events associated with depression. Listening and responding are the most important things. They will make some suggestions about activities and exercise. Using drugs is to be avoided if possible. Hospitalization is best if the person might commit suicide. If drugs that could cause depression are being used, these will be changed.