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mental health
DEPRESSION
Why family
matters
I
t’s normal to feel down now and
then. Most of the time, those
feelings pass in a few days.
But sometimes sadness can
take hold. at can make it hard to
work, sleep and do the things you
like to do. When this lasts for weeks
at a time, it’s known as depression.
And it can be very serious.
The family link.
A lot of things
can cause depression. But one thing
health experts have learned is that it
can run in families. is means that if
a family member has had depression,
you may be more likely to get it.
Stay positive to
deal with stress
We all face tough times, and
whether we like to admit it or
not, stress is a part of life.
Learning to react to stress
in positive ways can take
some practice—but it’s well
worth your efforts. It can help
you feel more relaxed and in
control of your life. And you
might be surprised at how
good that feels, even when the
going is tough.
Here are a few positive
ways to manage hard times:
Reach out. Talk with a
trusted friend or loved one.
Make a plan of how to get
through the problem.
Focus on things you know
you can change.
Make small, reachable
goals.
Believe that you have
the ability to solve your
problems.
Focus on what you want,
rather than on what you are
afraid of or stressed about.
You may need to change
your plans sometimes—
things won’t always go your
way. But knowing when to
be flexible is good. A positive
attitude—and a plan—can
help you through challenges.
If stress feels overwhelming
and you feel alone, let your
provider know. Your provider
is your private adviser and is
there to help you.
Sources: American Psychological Association; Mental Health America
Keep in mind, though: is doesn’t
mean you will get depression. And
people can become depressed even if
they don’t have a family history of it.
is is why it’s good for everyone
to know how to spot the illness. at
way, you can get help right away.
Depression is very treatable with
a provider’s help.
When it’s time to get help.
Symptoms may vary from person
to person. ey can include:
Feeling sad.
Feeling hopeless, anxious or guilty.
Feeling very tired.
Loss of interest in things you like
to do.
Not being able to sleep or
sleeping too much.
Not being able to concentrate or
recall details.
Eating too much or not wanting
to eat at all.
Aches, pains or headaches.
oughts of taking your own life.
If you notice ve or more of these
symptoms for two weeks or more,
see your provider as soon as you can.
Sources: American Psychiatric Association; National Institutes of Health
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family
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