It’s on all our minds this week, so let’s have a conversation: depression affects almost 1 in 5 Americans (18%).
Even if you aren’t affected right this second, there’s a good chance you have been (and an increased risk of getting it again), or will be. Or else, you probably have a loved one who suffers from depression.
Here’s what I want you to know, to pass on: it’s treatable. No one has to live with it.
How do you treat depression? That depends on you. Causes of depression range (and there are lots of types of depression), it could be genetically triggered, hormonally, seasonally, or just the weight of lots of life events.
While many doctors are quick to write a prescription, that’s not your only option. Therapy is a good place to start, but it’s not an automatic fix: you’ll probably need to try a few therapists before you find one that fits. That’s ok—it’s not you, it’s them. After all, they’re just people, too, and not all of them are going to be top notch or the right personality. And once you find the right therapist, it’ll take time for you to learn/practice the strategies they give you.
Can’t afford therapy? There are free services out there. And if you’re feeling suicidal, please call the suicide prevention hotline: 1-800-273-8255
There’s also lots of complimentary treatments you can try:
-Acupuncture/Acupressure
-Meditation
-Natural supplements (look for one that contains St. John’s Wort, and be sure to check that the ingredients won’t impact any medications you’re taking).
-Lifestyle changes like eating well, exercising, and de-stressing (they prevent depression in multiple ways).
Share your thoughts in the comments:
