Navigating Depression: A Message of Hope
Oct 30, 2023
Dear Warrior of Light,
The changing seasons usher in October, which brings National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month. As we step into winter and prepare for the holiday festivities, let's take a moment to assess our mental well-being.
For many, this time of year can be a challenging journey through the "dark days of winter." The stress of the holidays combined with the shift in seasons can cast a shadow on our emotional health.
It's crucial to recognize the warning signs of depression, whether it's within ourselves or someone we care about. These signs can include:
- Persistent sadness, filling most of the day, nearly every day.
- Losing interest in activities that once brought joy.
- Significant changes in appetite leading to weight fluctuations.
- Sleep disturbances, either struggling to sleep or oversleeping.
- A constant feeling of fatigue and low energy.
- Frequent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and self-criticism.
- Challenges with concentration, decision-making, and memory.
- An internal restlessness or a physical sensation of heaviness and slowness.
- Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain.
- Increased irritability, getting agitated over minor issues.
- Withdrawal from social activities, isolating oneself from loved ones.
- Finding daily tasks challenging, both at home and at work or school.
- Embracing a pessimistic outlook, coupled with a sense of hopelessness.
- Engaging in risky behavior, including substance abuse or self-harm.
- Repeated thoughts of death or suicide. (Seek immediate help if you or someone you know experiences these thoughts.)
It's crucial to understand that depression can manifest differently in each person. Some may experience all these symptoms, while others might only exhibit a few. The severity and duration of these symptoms can also vary.
Alysha Speer said, “Depression weighs you down like a rock in a river. You don't stand a chance. You can fight and pray and hope you have the strength to swim, but sometimes, you have to let yourself sink. Because you'll never know true happiness until someone or something pulls you back out of that river—and you'll never believe it until you realize it was you, yourself, who saved you.”
If you or a loved one consistently shows several of these signs for two weeks or more, it's imperative to reach out to a mental health professional. Remember, depression is treatable, and early intervention significantly improves mental health.
Remember the words of Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
As we approach the holiday season, let's take charge of our mental wellness. By doing so, we not only enhance our own lives but also become pillars of support for those we cherish.
With love and compassion,
Wendi Christensen, LCSW
