Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental condition experienced by millions of people. Based on National Institute of Mental Health research, more than 17 million adults in the U.S. experienced a major depressive episode the previous year. While most people can manage depressive symptoms on their own, unfortunately some depression leads to severe impairments, affecting the ability to manage daily life. This warrants immediate attention due to increased risk for suicide. It is important, therefore, to recognize depressive symptoms/ suicide warning signs and seek professional help.
During major depressive episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day for a period of two weeks.
Common Depressive Symptoms:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
- Irritability/anger, frustration
- Loss of interest/pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Sleep problems (sleeping too much or not enough)
- Lack of energy
- Reduced appetite (weight loss) or increased food cravings (weight gain)
- Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Frequent/recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts or attempts
Common Suicide Warning Signs:
- Talking about suicide/making statements such as “I’m going to kill myself” or “I wish I were dead”
- Obtaining means to commit suicide (e.g., purchasing a gun, stockpiling pills)
- Withdrawing socially
- Being constantly preoccupation with death
- Feeling hopeless/trapped in a situation
- Engaging in risky behaviors (driving recklessly, using drugs)
- Giving away belongings/getting affairs in order without rational reason
- Saying goodbye to people as if seeing them for the last time
- Experiencing shifts in personality (being severely anxious, agitated)
If you have depression and you’re struggling to cope, help is available. Here at NRS|LS we provide effective treatments for depression like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Biofeedback. We can teach you skills to effectively cope with your depression and restore your ability to function in your daily life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of depression, please call our office for a consultation.
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
- Call 911 in an emergency
- Contact Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: In U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24 hrs./day, 7 days/week
- The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S.-Spanish speaking: 1(888) 628-9454
Basia Andrejko-Gworek, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychology, Post-Doctoral Fellow
Permit# TP #213-03