Sometimes it’s hard to know if you have depression, or are just having a sad mood. Sad moods come and go under normal circumstances, and usually don't last all day or most of the day. Some people describe depression as feeling "blah" or "down", while others feel a painful emptiness that is quite hard to describe. When at least five of these symptoms are present at the same time, it’s important to find out more from a qualified professional:

 
_       Everything seems negative to you
 
_       You lack motivation to do things that you want or need to do

_       You get sick  more easily than before (with colds, flus, etc.)

 
_       Your energy is very low and even getting out of bed seems like a monumental effort

 
_       You feel helpless and hopeless to do anything to change your life for the better

 
_       Your appetite is abnormal – you either have no interest in food or you overeat

 
_       You’re more sensitive than usual to criticism from others

 
_       You feel bad about yourself and guilty about things you haven’t actually caused

 
_       You move and speak slowly, enough that other people notice

 
_       You think that you’d be better off dead and/or think about hurting yourself

 
_       You find it difficult to sleep, or sleep more than usual. You may wake up at 3 or 4 in the morning and can’t get back to sleep.

If these symptoms have been going on more days than not for at least two weeks, and you are concerned, please talk to your medical doctor about whether psychotherapy and/or medications would be right for you. Please also give me a call at 661-233-6771 to discuss how I can help you. With more information we can see whether or to what extent depression may be impacting your life. My name is Lisa S. Larsen, PsyD and I can help you create a life worth living and prevent your depression from worsening.