Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression and Seeking Treatment

Do not give in and do not give up.  Life is worth the living.  –D.B. 

I read a story once about a man who went to see a doctor.  He told the doctor that he was so sad, sorrowful, and depressed that he could hardly function.  The doctor said, “I think I know what will make you feel better.  The great clown, Pagliacci is in town this week.  He is guaranteed to make you laugh.  Go see him.  That will surely pick you up.”  The man burst into tears.  “But doctor,”  the man said.  “I am Pagliacci.”   

Perhaps you have heard this story before.  I have heard it a few times over the years told in different forms, but its message is powerful and relevant.  So often we go about our daily lives pretending that we feel fine, while on the inside we feel that we are just barely holding on.  If this describes you do not delay in getting treatment.  Talk to your doctor, pastor, or a trusted friend.  Help is available, but you must seek it out.  Do not go around any longer playing this terrible game of masquerade.   

I know from personal experience the dark and terrible emotional pit in which depression can leave us.  We begin to wonder if we will ever feel better or normal again.  We wonder what it would take to ever be happy once again.   Even the simplest daily tasks can become overwhelming to the point that getting out of bed every day is like trying to scale Mount Everest.  Do not give in and do not give up.  Life is worth the living.   

Whether you are suffering from depression, sadness, or a case of the blues, try these strategies for moving toward recovery:

• Determine if depression runs in your family.  If others in your family have battled depression, you are more likely to suffer from it also.
  

• Conduct an honest, personal assessment of your feelings and your overall outlook.  Are you feeling run down and tired all the time?  Have you lost interest in pursuits which once gave you enjoyment?  Are you preoccupied and irritable?  Are you sad and sorrowful but cannot figure out why?  Do you sleep too much?  Are simple tasks such as getting up, getting dressed, and doing household chores seem like way too much trouble?  If you answered yes to most or some of these questions you may be suffering from depression.  Contact your doctor right away for a consultation.  Help and treatment are available. 

• Make a promise to yourself that you will not give up and that you will move toward recovery no matter how long it takes.  Depression can be treated, but you must take the necessary steps to receive treatment. 

Do not fear getting help.  You are not alone.  Countless people are suffering from this affliction.  A brighter day is coming.   

Move toward that brighter day and never give up.