More than just "the blues"
We all experience episodes of unhappiness, sadness, or grief at some times in our lives. When a loved one dies or we suffer a personal tragedy or difficulty, such as divorce or loss of a job, we may feel depressed (some people call this "the blues"). Over the course of days or weeks after such an event, we are able to return to our normal activities and, after a reasonable amount of time, depending how traumatic the event was, our normal level of happiness.

But when unhappiness or sadness make it hard for us to get through the day and when those symptoms last for more than a couple of weeks, we may have what is called "clinical depression." That term is used for real depression, not just passing blues.

Symptoms of depression
You may be suffering from clinical depression if you:

• Have no interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy

• Feel sad or empty

• Cry easily or for no reason

• Feel slowed down or feel restless and unable to sit still

• Feel worthless or guilty

• Experience weight gain or loss

• Have frequent thoughts about death or suicide

• Have trouble thinking, remembering things, or focusing on what you were doing

• Have trouble making everyday decisions

• Have problems sleeping or want to sleep all the time

• Feel tired all the time

• Feel numb emotionally, perhaps to the point of not being able to cry

Talk to your doctor
If you are having those symptoms, be sure to tell your doctor so you can get help. Don't expect your doctor to be able to guess you are depressed by your looks or manner. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you will feel better. The good news is that depression is very treatable for most people. There's no need for you to live under that cloud.

Hot line help
People with depression sometimes think about suicide. This thinking is part of the depression. If you have thoughts about hurting yourself, tell your doctor, friends, or family--or call your local suicide hot line. If you do not have one in your area, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 1-800 273-TALK (8255).

For emergency help
If you need help now and do not feel you are safe, call 911 or go to your nearest ER immediately.

You can visit the following websites for more information:
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: www.dbsalliance.org
National Institute of Mental Health: www.nihm.nih.gov