March 1995 • No. 2, Article 6
Depression may last for several weeks or several years. The average age of a person with depression is 40. Depression is much more common in women than in men. Also the incidence of depression is 2-1/2 times greater for people who use alcohol or drugs.
Depression may be recognized by physical symptoms, emotional symptoms (or both). Physical symptoms include lack of energy, loss or increase of appetite, insomnia or excessive sleeping, backaches, headaches, body pains, upset stomachs, decreased sexual appetite, and, above all, chronic fatigue. Common emotional symptoms are difficulty with decisionmaking, lack of interest in hobbies or other activities, belief that things will never change, inability to feel pleasure, and feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, isolation, and confusion.
If you feel depressed, make sure you seek help. While depression may resolve by itself, it may be necessary to go into counseling and/or seek medical attention. A combination of counseling and anti-depressant medication has been proven effective in the treatment of depression. Individual or group counseling is effective especially when a person is having difficulty expressing feelings such as anger, hurt or sadness. Anti-depressant medications usually help reduce symptoms and improve a person's mood. Medications are helpful although they can take up to eight-to-twelve weeks to work.
If you are depressed and feel you need medical attention, contact your
physician. If you are interested in receiving supportive counseling,
contact Amy Tedesco of The Hawkins Center's Support Services Program at
232-6611. Counseling services are free to all current and past clients
of the Hawkins Center.