Is it time to ask for help in coping with depression?

Oftentimes, I have clients who have pretty significant depression and have a difficult time starting their day feeling hopeful.

Two of the biggest symptoms of depression are a lack of interest in pleasurable activities and lack of motivation. I’ve had people say to me, “Oh, there are times when I’m just lazy and I can’t even get out of bed for one or two days.” Then they’re hard on themselves about it because they know there are things they need to do, but they can’t find the will to do it. That’s not being lazy – that’s being depressed.

Another one of the symptoms of depression is a feeling of hopelessness. A little bit of depression can be dealt with. There are things you can do, techniques and coping skills that can help you through that depression. The main thing is to try not to isolate, try to be out and about. Even if you just go out and take a walk, that’s going to help you feel a little better. You can exercise and do things that will help you feel less depressed and more like yourself.

But sometimes, it’s more than that. It can be difficult to deal with depression of course, but it doesn’t have to be hopeless. When depression interferes with your ability to live your life the way you want to, that’s too much depression. That’s when it’s time to reach out for some support.