Are you Depressed?

Marsha B. Sauls, Ph.D.
Atlanta Network For Individual and Family Therapy
770-668-0350 x 221
www.dunwoodypsychologists.com

Many people suffer from depression. For some their depressed mood has been around for such a long time they have gotten used to it. For these people, their depressed mood is sometimes noticed more by those around them than by themselves. For others depression is transitory and can be caused by an event causing unusual emotional stress. Some symptoms of depression are as follows.

• Having trouble concentrating
• Having difficulty sleeping
• Loosing enjoyment in things you like
• Feeling overly negative and/or critical of yourself and others
• Having less energy and getting tired easily
• Loosing interest in being around other people
• Crying easily
• Having trouble accomplishing tasks
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Feeling there is nothing to look forward to

Many people treat their depressive symptoms by ignoring them (Toughing them out) or self medicating with alcohol (To relieve stress). Depression is now best treated with cognitive therapy or medication. According to current research data, the most effective treatment for depression is a combination of both cognitive therapy and medication.