Everyone feels sad or down sometimes. For many people, these feelings will disappear or fade after a few days; however, depression is different. It impacts your daily life, and you can’t simply snap out of it.
TYPES AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
Depression looks different for everyone. One person may appear sad or hopeless and another might be persistently irritable and anxious. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM–5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013) classifies depression as follows:
CAUSES OF DEPRESSION
There are times when a person may become depressed without any attributable cause. However, most researchers agree that genetic, environmental, biological, and psychological factors all contribute.
ACTION STEPS
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression consider the following:
✓ Schedule an appointment for a check-up with
your primary care provider.
✓ Seek out individual counseling or support groups.
✓ Do your best to be active and exercise. ✓ Make small, attainable goals for yourself.
✓ Try to spend time with others and avoid isolation. Allow others to help you.
✓ Give yourself time and grace. Expect your mood to improve gradually.
✓ Postpone making important life decisions.
✓ Connect with family and friends and share your thoughts, feeling and concerns.
If you’re feeling suicidal, don’t hesitate to call 911, or go to an urgent care center or hospital emergency room for immediate assistance.
KEEP IN MIND
You’re not alone, and help is available. Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment will help you overcome. Consider reaching out to your health care provider and engaging other counseling resources for guidance on next steps.
Lyle Labardee, MS, LPC is a licensed behavioral health therapist and former first responder who specializes in first responder wellness. He also serves as CEO of Amplified Life, a leading provider of counseling, coaching, consulting and critical incident response services. Amplified Life stands ready to support you in the very important work you do. Please feel free to contact us at any time as needed by calling or emailing our Care Team at 616-499-4711 | care@amplife.us.
Historic Counseling Center
7791 Byron Center Ave SW
Byron Center, MI 49315
616-499-4711
South Counseling Center
2465 Byron Station Dr SW
Byron Center, MI 49315
616-499-4711
Amplified Life Counseling
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