February 2001

What do you do if you are depressed? Well, it depends on how depressed you are. If you are having a bad day, you might need to do some self-nurturing activities such as reading, taking a bath, taking a walk, or talking with a friend. You need to figure out what makes you feel good and safe and then do those things. We all have different things that work for us. I would love nothing more than curling up in front of a fire with a book, while my husband builds models. We all have our own things that nurture us. The trick is to find out what those things are, make a list of them and hang it some where you will be sure to see it when you need it.

If the depression is lasting awhile, you still need to do the nurturing activities, but you may need to do some more things. You need to figure out what is depressing you and determine if there is something that you are willing to do to make changes. You need to make sure that you have support in your life. You may need to see a therapist if you are feeling stuck or unable to figure out what is triggering the depression.

If the depression is long-standing, impacting your close relationships or you are suicidal, you will need to see professional help. Make sure that you find a therapist that you feel comfortable with. You may also need to see a psychiatrist for anti-depressants. We know that some depressions are caused by chemical imbalances. Taking an anti-depressants for a chemical imbalance is the same thing as taking insulin if you have diabetes. If your body is unable to make the chemical that you need than you need medicine. You may still need therapy to help you find better ways to cope that the ways that you have learned prior to the medication.

The bottom line is that if you are depressed, you do not need to stay that way. There are things that you can do on your own and with professionals. Take care of your self and find happiness.

Michelle