Feeling down? Learn to recognize the signs of depression
One of the more common mental health struggles people face is depression, which experts agree has only become a bigger issue after two years of isolation, loss and disruptions.
According to the World Health Organization, depression is experienced by approximately 5 percent of all adults and is a leading cause of disability around the world.
While mild, moderate and severe forms of depression are treatable, people must learn to recognize their symptoms to get the help they need. During a depressive episode, symptoms are typically experienced most days of the week for at least two consecutive weeks. Below are some of the most common symptoms and patterns:*
- Having a depressed mood (feeling sad, empty or irritable)
- Feeling decreased self-worth
- Experiencing a strong sense of guilt or shame
- Losing interest or joy in typical activities
- Feeling hopeless about the future
- Thinking about dying or suicide
- Sleeping too much or too little (disrupted sleep)
- Struggling to concentrate
- Fluctuating appetite or weight
- Experiencing pain, fatigue or weakness
If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or the people around you, seek help. Consult your medical provider for next steps and let trusted friends, family members or co-workers know what you are experiencing. Relying on your medical and personal support system is a great first step toward healing and recovery.
You can also reach out to on-call counselors with Dallas ISD’s Employee Assistance Program by LifeWorks. Their counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and using these secure, confidential EAP resources requires no employee contribution. Reach out to LifeWorks at (972) 925-4000 or visit www.dallasisd.org/benefits and click on Benefits Resources to access online EAP information.
For more information about mental health resources in the community, visit www.dallasisd.org/mentalhealthmonth.
*Source: World Health Organization
