Depression is common and treatable

Depression is one of the most common and treatable mental illnesses. The National Institute of Mental Health estimated 16.1 million Americans suffered a depressive episode in 2015 alone. We often hear the clinical terms used by doctors and other health care professionals to describe depression, but what exactly is depression?

For someone who has not gone through depression, the illness is vaguely understood and often confused with feeling unhappy or moody. When unhappiness or feeling “blue” lingers, it can become a real, but treatable problem. Clinical depression can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Relationships, work or school performance, parenting and social functioning can be impaired.

Someone who is depressed typically has feelings of prolonged sadness that lasts weeks or months. People with depression may feel hopeless, helpless, worthless or excessively guilty. Decreased concentration, fatigue and changes in sleep patterns are also common. Additionally, interest in pleasurable activities you once enjoyed, such as hobbies, exercise or sex may decrease. Sometimes agitation, anxiety, irritability and a restless feeling can be present with a depression.
Here in the Pacific Northwest, depression can be brought on by the gray winter rainy season. If you notice lingering symptoms of depression, or if people who know you well indicate you are having difficulties coping with your moods, you may wish to talk to your doctor or other health professional. He or she is there to diagnose and treat your physical and mental health difficulties. Your provider will help you formulate a plan to combat depression, which may include medication, a referral to a therapist, or both.
It may also be useful to add structure to your life by creating a daily routine. Depression can make one day melt into the next. Setting a gentle daily schedule can help with goals and responsibilities, while also giving you something to look forward to every day. Start small and make your schedule easy to follow with routine tasks like making your bed, cooking breakfast or walking the dog. Sticking to a routine can help overcome the helpless feelings caused by depression. With support from your health care provider, along with a conscious effort to keep yourself healthy, both mentally and physically, you can manage depression symptoms.
Most importantly, remember you are not alone. If you are having a hard time, please do not hesitate to seek help. If you’re not sure where to turn, call the Umpqua Regional Medical Center at 541-440-6390. If you are an Umpqua Health Alliance member, call 541-229-4842 and UHA’s member engagement team will help you locate a qualified provider. If there is an emergency, such as suicidal thoughts or attempt, immediately call 911 or the 24-hour crisis hotline 800-866-97