Depression is a mental health condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or sexual orientation. It can manifest in different ways, but some common symptoms include persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Fortunately, there are ways to address depression. Seeking professional help from a mental health professional is crucial in getting an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This can include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

It's important to recognize that depression is a treatable condition and that there is no shame in seeking help. Taking proactive steps towards addressing depression can help improve your quality of life and lead to a brighter future. Here are three proactive steps that readers can take to manage symptoms of depression:

1.     Engage in self-care: This can include engaging in regular exercise, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Taking care of your physical and emotional health can help alleviate symptoms of depression. 

2.     Build a support network: Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family members can be beneficial in managing symptoms of depression. Joining a support group or reaching out to a therapist can also provide a safe space to talk about your experiences and receive guidance.

3.     Challenge negative thoughts: Depression can be accompanied by negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of hopelessness and low self-worth. Challenging these negative thoughts and reframing them in a positive light can help change your perspective and improve your mood. This can involve identifying the evidence for and against negative thoughts, questioning the accuracy of negative beliefs, and focusing on positive aspects of your life.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, seek support from a mental health professional . Remember, you don't have to go through it alone.

Thank you for reading. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you would like to speak with someone about SHIFTing your mental health journey. Contact us today.

By: Dodrie Escoffery, Associate therapist, SHIFT Your Journey Mental Health Counseling