Depression. A word that you probably hear a lot of- especially on TV commercials about anti-depressant medications. With all the information that's out there- it's hard to know if you are suffering from clinical depression or just having a normal bought of the blues. Regardless, no one wants to feel sad or depressed. The bigger questions become- Why am I depressed? And how do I get better?

Ask yourself why you might be feeling this way? Are there things going on in your life that are affecting you? Has there been any past trauma that seems to be rearing its ugly head now? It the weather making you feel blah? There are many factors that can cause depression. Sometimes, you might not even be able to pinpoint "why" you're feeling this way. There have been many studies that have found that depression can run in families. So there is a biological link as well.

The most important issue regarding depression is getting help. You don't have to live this way. Luckily, in this day and age, there are many treatments for this very common affliction. Here are a few things you can do to improve your mood and get out of the depression you're feeling:

  • Keep a journal. Maybe there are certain times of day, week, or month that you are feeling this way. This may help you to identify what's causing the dip in your mood. It also is a very healthy outlet to get those feelings off your chest.
  • Don't be afraid to share this with your doctor. He/she may prescribe an anti-depressant, refer you to a psychiatrist, or suggest seeing a therapist. No one person is the same- what works for one may be different for you. So it's important to explore your options and see what helps you.
  • Talk about it. Confide in a friend or close family member. Don't keep it bottled in. It will continue to get worse. Seeking a therapist or counselor to speak to can be very helpful since it is their job to be an objective person to help you work through your depression.
  • Make change. Are you spending time with people that are not reciprocal of your friendship? Are you using alcohol and/or drugs to "self-medicate" your depression? If you keep doing things the same, nothing will change. Assess your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Is there even one thing you could change that could result in a more positive outcome for you? Taking that first step, as small as it might be, can be the catalyst to stop the cycle of depression you are experiencing.

These are just a few tips to keep in mind as you are seeking help to manage your depression. If you're feeling like hurting yourself or someone else- it's time to seek immediate help. Call 911 or get yourself to the nearest emergency room. Safety is a priority. Life is worth living. Utilize the resources around you. If you've read this, you already are!

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