There are many answers to this question. Sometimes depression is just feeling negative feelings. Everyone feels sad or angry or sorry sometimes, especially when something bad or unexpected has happened. So, if you feel depressed because you are going through a loss or a life change, congratulations! You are human!
Sometimes depression is a reflection of life circumstances. Many people experience depression when they aren't getting enough sleep, when physical changes are happening (sickness, hormonal changes, even adjusting to a new climate or time zone), or because of a reaction to a trying environment (winter blues, bug infestation, disaster, etc.).
Depression can also be a symptom of a mental or emotional problem, and it generally makes other mental or emotional problems worse. So, how can you tell if negative feelings are a problem worth treating?
- If depression is affecting your life (health, relationships, job, etc.) then it is absolutely worth treating!
- If depression is moving you in the direction of hurting yourself or someone else then get help immediately!
Here are some links that might help. (Posting a link does not imply endorsement of any product or service. If you have questions about information you find online, ask a health professional or therapist you trust.)
Information about depression:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression/DS00175
Men and depression:
http://www.mengetdepression.com/
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/men-and-depression/index.shtml
What to do if you are feeling depressed:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression/how-can-i-help-myself-if-i-am-depressed.shtml
http://helpguide.org/mental/depression_tips.htm
http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=empower_toolbox
http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/infopax.cfm?Info_ID=37
Support Groups:
http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=support_findsupport
Suicide:
Call 911
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/index.shtml
While the focus of joy class is using proven methods to become more joyful, we know that joy and depression are two sides of the same coin. As you are getting educated about joy it is a good idea to get educated about depression as well. Depression is not only very common, it is also very treatable. There is no reason to continue suffering.
Thanks for including information specifically for men about depression. Although there are a lot of things that are the same for both men and women who are depressed, I think that there are unique aspects of depression for men.
ReplyDeleteI've looked through some of the websites you posted and they are great. The helpguide.org site has a "toolkit" section for reducing stress/getting life more into balance. You might be able to get some ideas for a stress reduction unit if you decide to do that.
ReplyDelete