The holiday season is supposed to be a happy time of year, when friends and family gather for parties and gift exchanges. It is also a hectic time of year, when financial worries can cause stress and busy schedules can cause sleep deprivation. It’s normal to sometimes feel a bit out of sorts. Unfortunately, for some people the season can heighten symptoms of depression.
Do you know the symptoms of depression? Do you know what to do if you feel depressed?
The Human Development Center in offers the following warning signs:
. Feeling sad or blue much of
the time
. Sleep problems – too much,
too little
. Food issues – eating too little
or too much, weight gain or
loss
. Irritable or grouchy much of
the time
. Difficulty concentrating,
focusing, or paying attention . Feeling worthless or
misunderstood
. Losing interest, dropping
out, or not having energy for
former activities
. Restlessness, difficulty staying
still
. Physical complaints, digestive
problems, headaches, stomach
aches
. Suicide thinking, or ever
having attempted suicide
If you have three or more of these symptoms, PLEASE get screened for depression. There are a number of caring, professional mental health practitioners in Cook County that you can talk to. If you need help this holiday season, please contact the Human Development Center at 387-9444 or the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic at 387-2330 to find one who can help you.
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