“What’s wrong?” “Why are you always so down?” These are just
a few that many people who are depressed are asked but never know the answer
to. Many people think that admitting they are sad all the time is a weakness so
they try to live with it instead of seeking help, but its actually a well
known, but still highly ignored medical illness named Depression. According to
the CDC (cdc.gov) in 2012 1 out of 10 adults report depression symptoms but the question
is how many seek help for it?
In the black community many look at a therapist as someone
who is just ‘nosey and in their business’, but in reality a licensed therapist
or counselor is someone with an unbiased opinion who can give you a listening
ear and advice without judging you. Not everyone who goes to a therapist is
crazy, or need medication, although needing it will not deem you as crazy
either. Some people need it to fix a chemical imbalance that they cannot “fix”
on their own while some just need to see an ending to a situation they cannot
work out on their own.
Depression can be a very serious illness if not treated.
Some people who cannot see any other way think that suicide is the only way to
an ending, but suicide should never be an option. There is always a solution to
every problem even if its just learning how to live with something that you
cannot change. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (www.afsp.com) there was 38,000 Americans who committed suicide in 2010 and it accounts for 12
out of 100,000 deaths nationwide. Suicide is the 10th leading cause
of death.
Another myth about depression is that it only affects
adults. This is far from the truth; children can also suffer from depression
and is probably easier to spot although it at times takes drastic measures for
a parent to notice it. Being sad all the time is not a sign of puberty. If your
child is withdrawing herself or crying all the time bring it up to your child’s
doctor. They can help you determine if your child may need additional help.
There is several outpatient children’s therapist who can talk to your child
without necessarily putting them on medication. Children have a higher rate of self-mutilation
and suicide, especially when they feel as if no one is listening or no one
cares.
Suffering quietly should never be an option, and perhaps you
may not have a friend that realizes the seriousness and may downplay it. Never
stop there. According to WebMD.com some signs that you are depressed and need
to seek help are sadness all the time, not feeling interested in the things you
normally are interested in, sleeping more frequently or insomnia, irritability,
feelings of guilt or worthlessness, overeating or appetite loss and/or
decreased energy. If you or anyone you know are showing signs of depression
please seek help. Please don’t feel ashamed to ask for help, it’s not a sign of
weakness, instead of sign of strength.
If someone you know or you are thinking of suicide please
call the national suicide hotline 1-800-SUICIDE.
