“He’s Looking at Me!” Complaints, Gripes, Whines & Moans (Copy)
How would you complete the following nursery rhymes?
Jack be nimble, Jack be quick, Jack…
There was a woman who lived in a …She had so many children…
Three blind mice, three blind mice…
Itsy Bitsy Spider climbed up the...
Understanding depression will require you to understand the simple completed phrases of these nursery rhymes. Depression can also be understood by noticing some of the symptoms of the emotional struggle as well. Weight gain or loss without the attempt to be on a weight program, sleeplessness or sleeping all the time, difficulty concentrating, irritability, hopelessness or helplessness, tearfulness most of the time, and the loss of interest in things that used to be fun are all symptoms that may suggest that a depressed mood needs to be considered.
Depression is more widespread in America than most people realize. Consider these facts:
Nearly 25% of all persons in America are experiencing some type of depressed mood or depression at any given point.
Everyone will be affected by depression- their own, a family member, an employee, or a neighbor.
The rate of depression in children and preschoolers is increasing.
54% of all people believe depression is a personal weakness.
41% of depressed persons are too embarrassed to seek treatment.
80% of depressed persons are not currently seeking treatment.
Depression is the second largest killer after heart disease -- and studies show depression is a contributory factor to fatal coronary disease.
Where does depression come from?
Bloodline - There is some depression that is inherited by the previous generation. It may be genetic or learned behavior.
Situational - Some depressed moods or “funks” are related to life circumstances that may involve poor choices, finances, uncontrollable events, and more.
Loss - Loss of jobs, death of relatives, unrealized hopes and dreams, and loss of security have ways of causing depressed moods to surface.
Overwhelmed by expectations - Whether it’s one on expectation of those imposed by others, a sad or hopeless mood can result in a sense of helplessness.
Compassion fatigue - Persons in helping professions or individuals who give much of themselves often experience a depressed mood out of pure exhaustion.
So what can I do about it?
Set some limits and boundaries with others
Decrease the intensity (Intensity does not equal productivity)
Take control of your life
Talk to a close friend or a therapist
Get some exercise
Consider necessary counseling as a healthy thing to do or medication if it is recommended by a doctor.
There will always be candlesticks, hurdles, and other things to jump over.
There will always be things to chase.
There will be those moments when you don’t know what to do.
And there will be times when you feel washed away… but remember the sun will come out and dry up all the rain and you can climb up and out, again.
