When Should I Seek Help for Depression?
When you or a loved one is struggling with depression, the urge to reach out for help is a natural part of the healing process. If you think you need help with depression, you don’t have to take an online quiz to find out or wait for it to get better or worse. The time to seek help is now.
However, if you’re still uncertain if you really need help, here are some signs you should probably speak with a professional:
Your Symptoms Have Lasted for Two Weeks or Longer
It is a natural part of the human experience to face changes in mood, motivation, emotions, and appetite from time to time. Just because you have a few rough days, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re dealing with depression. However, if you’ve felt down on most days for two weeks or more, you should reach out for help.
You are Struggling With Hopelessness
Do you feel like your life has lost all meaning or purpose? When you feel like you’re unable to move forward with your life as it currently stands, even if the circumstances around you were to suddenly improve, you should speak with a professional.
You have difficulty Concentrating
When thoughts of hopelessness begin to invade your day-to-day life to the point that you’re unable to concentrate on work, school, or family, it’s time to seek help.
You Are Experiencing Aches and Pains
Roughly 70% of people diagnosed with depression also consult a doctor for aches or pains. Mood issues and anxiety—both common manifestations of depression—can also lead to physiological problems, including stomach aches, backaches, and joint pain. If you notice aches and pains that only come around when you’re feeling down, you should reach out for help.
You No Longer Enjoy Activities You Once Did
When you’re unable to find joy in activities and hobbies you once had a passion for and that feeling lasts for an extended period of weeks or more, depression is often the root cause.
You Are Abusing Drugs or Alcohol
Approximately 20% of adults who struggle with mood disorders also struggle with substance abuse disorders, and they use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. If you regularly rely on drugs or alcohol to feel better when you’re down, it’s time to seek help.
Your Sleep Patterns Are Irregular
Irregular sleep patterns can indicate that you’re struggling with depression. Whether you’re oversleeping, sleep deprived, or simply struggling to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, the cause could be depression.
You Are Easily Irritated by the People Around You
If the people around you have noticed that you’re more irritable or agitated than usual for extended periods, you should contact a professional.
You Feel Worthless or Guilty
If you’re questioning the worth of your life or never feel like you’re good enough, those thoughts may be triggering a depressive spiral that will only get worse. If that sounds familiar, you should seek help.
You Are Dealing With Thoughts of Death or Suicide
If ideations of death or suicide regularly consume your thoughts, you should seek help for depression immediately.
We Want to Know What Happened to You
At PCH Treatment Center, we treat each individual as a person, not a diagnosis. We want to know what happened to you, not what’s wrong with you. In our experience, depression is most often the manifestation of deep-seated trauma and anxiety, and we’re here to help you uncover what’s at the root of your depression and to learn ways to improve your mood and daily functioning.. When you are ready to reach out for help, PCH is here to listen.