In the depth of winter, I found that there was an invincible summer.
– Albert Camus

Depression can occur for many different reasons.  Extreme or ongoing stress, the loss of a job or romantic partner, the death of a loved one, or family genetics can make you more likely to develop a biochemical imbalance. No matter what the reason, being depressed hurts. There are many medications that can be very helpful for some people. The truth is that long-term positive results in lifting depression occurs when a person also seeks therapy to figure out and address its cause. Many people can work their way out of depression without taking any medication.

Recognize the Warning Signs of Depression

Ask yourself:

• Do I feel so sad or depressed that I am not functioning as I should?
• Am I often lying awake at night worrying?
• Am I losing weight?
• Do I feel overwhelmed most of the time?
• Do I feel isolated and alone with my problem?
• Am I drinking too much?  Is my drinking interfering with how I function with family, my job or in other ways?  Is it adversely affecting my health?
• Am I using pills to get me through the day?
• Am I drinking too much coffee each day? Excessive caffeine can be hard on your body and can reduce your ability to manage stress.
• Am I yelling or crying too much?  You probably can recognize if your moods are exceeding what is normal for you.
• Am I losing my temper with people who are close to me?
• Am I thinking about suicide?
• Do I feel that I am out of control of my situation or at the end of my rope?
• Is my body telling me that I am under too much stress?
• Do I often feel panicky, nervous, or frightened?
• Is it hard for me to make decisions?

If you recognize that you are experiencing some or many of the above feelings, it may be that you are carrying too heavy a burden without enough help.   Most people can feel much better given the right assistance.  I know the darkness, I am not afraid of it, and I can help you find the way out.

Please contact me with any questions you may have.