Fighting the Blues: Could it be Depression?

Are you feeling blue on most days? Are you sleeping more or less than what is normal for you? Are you having difficulty concentrating and making decisions? Could you be clinically depressed or could it be a case of the blues that will fade in a few weeks?

 In cases of situational depression, something has occurred to cause the depressive symptoms but these symptoms typically fade in time. It is normal to have the occasional blues and to feel distress when ending a relationship, losing a job or moving to a new city. When you are feeling down, it is important to prioritize self-care.  Mindfulness techniques
have been shown to be beneficial such as yoga, meditation and using breathing techniques. Eating healthy, exercising and resting are also important factors during this time. Journaling your thoughts and feelings as well as reaching out to supportive people can also be helpful. Think of people who are “safe” – people who will not judge you or tell you what you should and should not feel, do, or say. In time, maybe one day at a time, you slowly start feeling less pain, sadness and the blues start to fade away.

In cases where the blues do not fade and seem to linger, you may not be fighting the blues; it may be depression. Depression can come in variations of intensity, severity and longevity. It is not the same for every individual and it’s not always what you see on the anti-depressant medication commercials on TV. In these commercials you see the gloomy situations where a playful dog comes running to its non-responsive, somber owner. Depression does not look like that in every individual. Depression can cycle between ups and
downs; depressions can be a lingering feeling of feeling down on most days and in more severe cases, it  can leave you unable to get out of bed. A licensed therapist can diagnose the type of depression and help you determine what the best course of action may be.

Research has shown that people who suffer from depression have the best outcomes when combining therapy with the use of medication. Your medical doctor or psychiatrist can evaluate if medication may be beneficial in your treatment. A decision to try anti-depressants does not mean that it’s a magic pill that instantly takes effect. It typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to see the potential benefits. Some people describe the medication as helping lift the fog surrounding them. Others describe the effects as feeling numb and out of
touch. You might need to try different medications before you find the “right fit” for you.  It is important to
evaluate the pros and cons with your medical provider and to continue with a healthy self-care plan .Depression is treatable and you do not have to go through it alone. Call today for a free 10 minute phone consultation to learn how counseling could benefit you.

Ingela Edwards, MS, LPC, NCC, SRT, CCPS works with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety and grief. Ingela Edwards Counseling serves the McKinney, Plano, Allen, Frisco, Carrollton, Lewisville, Dallas and Sherman area. For appointments, or a free phone consultation, call: 214-551-0422

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