SPRING 2024 A Product of Select Health of South Carolina, Inc. Today’s Health Ditch Depression This Spring Even in the spring, when the sun is shining and the birds are chirping, you can feel a little less than sunny. You can even feel depressed. Usually, these emotions are temporary and you will get better on your own. But if your sadness continues for two weeks or more and aff ects other areas of your life, you could be depressed. • Aches, pains, headaches, or digestive issues • Thoughts of death or suicide Treating depression Symptoms of depression Depression is a mood disorder that impacts how you think and feel. You could be depressed if you experience signs such as: • Feeling sad, hopeless, anxious, or worthless • Loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy • Fatigue • Problems with concentration, memory, or decision-making • Changes in sleeping and eating habits • Irritability Depression can be serious. If you think you might be experiencing symptoms, visit your health care provider or a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Depression is treated with therapy, medications, or both. Depending on the severity of your depression, your provider may begin with therapy alone, before adding an antidepressant to your treatment plan. This medication works by changing how your brain uses certain mood-related chemicals. It can take four to eight weeks for antidepressants to work. They can cause side eff ects such as: • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea • Dizziness • Dry mouth • Sleepiness • Weight gain • Sexual dysfunction If you start taking an antidepressant, don’t stop taking it on your own. Doing so can cause depression to worsen. Talk with your provider about how to adjust your medicine to fi t your needs. With help from health care professionals, you can beat depression and return to brighter days! “Antidepressants.” U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. https://medlineplus.gov/antidepressants.html. “Depression.” National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression. “How to Safely Take Antidepressants.” American Academy of Family Physicians. https://familydoctor.org/how-to-safely-take-antidepressants. “Mental Health Conditions: Depression and Anxiety.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html. 11194D
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