6 Things to Understand & Do If You’re Struggling with Adult Depression
It’s time to change that narrative about adult depression by speaking out and getting help when needed. Right now, many people need the support of others to get through their day-to-day struggles with depression (and other mental health issues). If you or someone you love is struggling with this condition, know that there are many things you can do for yourself and others around you.
Depression Isn’t Just Sadness
Depression is a severe mental health issue. A chemical imbalance can cause it in the brain, traumatic events, genetics, and a combination of factors.
Depression isn’t just sadness; it’s also associated with other symptoms such as:
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Feeling tired all the time (even when you’re not sick)
- Feeling sad or down all day long without getting better at work or school.
Seeking Help Is Worth It
It’s essential to seek help. The more you know about what depression looks like, how it affects your body and mind, and how it can change your life—the better equipped you’ll be to deal with it.
The first step is finding the right therapist for you: someone who understands what depression feels like; has experience working with people who have experienced similar symptoms; will listen without judgment or criticism (or at least make sure they’re not judging); has earned their license through continuing education courses on working with clients who suffer from mental health issues like depression; has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
If possible, try seeing several different therapists before choosing one who seems right for you—and remembers that this process might take months or even years!
You May Need Antidepressants
In some cases, antidepressants may be the best course of treatment. If you have been diagnosed with depression and have tried to cope with the symptoms yourself without success, or if your symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily activities like work or sleep, it’s essential to see a doctor immediately.
For antidepressants to work effectively as part of your treatment plan for depression, they need to be taken regularly (at least every day) for at least three months. This means that if you experience side effects from taking them (such as headaches), then it’s essential that these are addressed right away by calling into question whether or not this medication is right for you in the first place—and if so what type would be best suited in terms of dosage amount needed per day?
Realize You Have Friends to Lean On
You are not alone.
It can be hard to realize that, especially when no one understands what you’re going through. But the truth is, some people care about you and want to help—and they’re just as desperate for answers as you are! The first step toward getting better is admitting that this is a problem. So talk it out with your friends and family (if possible). If it doesn’t seem like anyone else has been able to help before, ask them: “What advice would someone give me if they were in my shoes?” They might say something unexpected or helpful…or maybe just let them know they’ve been listening and thinking about what’s happening too!
Your Support Network Is Key
Your Support Network Is Key
The most important thing you can do for yourself is to surround yourself with people who care about you and support your well-being. This can be friends, family members, or a therapist. You don’t have to go it alone if you’re feeling depressed—the more support systems in place for an individual during this time of need, the better off they’ll be. And don’t forget that someone always wants nothing more than your happiness!
Examine Your Thoughts
When we think about what’s happening in our lives (or not happening), we often find ourselves overwhelmed and unable to see any way out of our situation—even though there may be one right under our noses! If this sounds familiar, then take some time out today by sitting down with a pen/paper pad/smartphone, etcetera (and maybe even some chocolate) – write down all those negative thoughts that come into mind when faced with challenges like depression – then ask yourself whether these were helpful ones?
Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative in Treatment Options
There are many treatment options for adult depression. The first step is determining which treatment will work best for you and your situation. It’s important to remember that there are no one size fits all solution, so don’t be afraid to get creative in pursuing treatment options if they seem like they might help you feel better faster than other treatments would.
If you don’t like one particular type of treatment, try another! There are many different therapies out there that could benefit someone who struggles with depression—and it’s always worth trying something new if it feels right for them (and vice versa).
There can be a lot of shame around depression, but it is possible to get through it.
- Depression is not a character flaw nor a sign of weakness.
- Depression is a medical condition that needs to be treated with the same care and compassion as any other illness or injury.
If you’re suffering from depression, it’s essential to know that there can be a lot of shame around depression, but it is possible to get through it.
Conclusion
Depression is a severe issue many adults face, but it doesn’t have to be something you struggle with forever. If you’re currently struggling with depression, there are things you can do to start feeling better. Therapists can be great resources for helping you understand and manage your depression.
Additionally, make sure to take care of yourself physically by exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet. Finally, don’t forget to reach out to your friends and family for support. With the right help and understanding, you can start managing your depression and living a happier life.
If you need more guidance on dealing with depression, please contact us today at Malaty Therapy, and we will schedule an appointment with you for more information.
