Mental Health Awareness Month: Depression

Although often associated with sadness, depression is a mood disorder that goes beyond normal sadness. Depression affects a person’s emotions, thoughts, and actions. Depression can make it difficult to complete daily responsibilities, including responsibilities with work and school, and affect relationships with family and friends.

There are no single causes of depression; however, several factors may contribute to depression, including major life changes, genetics, trauma, and drug or alcohol use. Depression can affect a person at any age and symptoms can last weeks, months, or years. Common symptoms of depression are feeling down or hopeless, feeling tired or feeling as if you have no energy, feeling less motivated, losing interest in previously enjoyed hobbies and activities, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep, and changes in appetite.

There are treatment options available for depression; some treatment options can include medication, talk therapy, or a combination of both. In addition, making a daily commitment to stay active, exercise, spend time with friends and family, and engage in hobbies can be helpful. If you believe you may be experiencing depression, speak with your healthcare provider for more information.

If you or someone you know would like more information on mental health or would like to speak to one of our experts about a free screening, please call DHR Health Behavioral Hospital at (956) 362- HELP (4357).