It seems that only a few months ago, we were welcoming a New Year. Now we are in the winter holiday season. People definitely seem more friendly, at least most do. There are some who find it hard getting into the “Christmas Spirit” One reason may be depression. We use the word depression to describe when we just aren’t feeling our “normal” selves or experiencing sadness; however, depression is a mental health disorder, with a myriad of symptoms. These symptoms can be physical, as well as emotional and behavioral. The list of symptoms can include feeling sad, lethargic, not experiencing joy/pleasure in activities once enjoyed, sleep challenges (sleeping too much or sleeping too little) weight challenges (eating too much or eating too little), irritability/anger, an inability to concentrate to experiencing forgetfulness, just to name a few.
Depression is a mood disorder. A depression diagnosis can be given if the person is experiencing most of the described symptoms and has been for 2 weeks or more, most of the day, every day. The causes of depression are not fully understood. It may be biological, environmental or genetic, or a combination. Some people find that they experience depression during the late fall into the winter season. There are no definitive answers for this; however, some research indicates the loss of daylight is a major contributor. This is referred to as seasonal affective disorder.
Depression is the leading cause for suicide. In several communities the suicide rate has climbed astronomically! Did you know that within the African American community it is the 3rd, 4th and 5th leading cause of death in several age groups. The topic of suicide is often avoided because it still carries a stigma; however, we can no longer ignore it, or act as though it doesn’t exist. Recently, one of my younger clients showed for an emergency session. She’d lost a 6th grade classmate to suicide! My heart ached for my client, but especially as I thought about the pain the parents and family must feel. Please understand a diagnosis of depression doesn’t mean that you will attempt suicide. However, one can’t ignore the connection between the two.
Next month, we’ll continue the conversation.
Let’s Talk About is a monthly feature. If you should have additional questions or you would like to suggest a topic, please reach out to me.
