Everyone has ups and downs. Sadness is a normal reaction to things that can happen in life. But depression is more than that. It’s a mood disorder that affects how people feel, think and handle daily life.
Depression isn’t the same for everyone. People may show different signs or have different symptoms, such as:
People who show these signs every day for at least two weeks may have depression. Do you see these signs in yourself or a loved one? If you do, call your primary care physician (PCP). You can also call the number on your member ID card for help.
If you find out you have depression, just remember that it’s not your fault. Studies suggest many things can contribute to depression, like:
With treatment, depression can get better. So see your PCP or mental health care provider. Find one you can be honest with and trust. Along with treatment, you can do a lot to take care of yourself. Exercise can help fight depression. Try for 30 minutes each day. Avoid drugs and alcohol. These only make it worse. Try to relieve stress. Some people enjoy meditation, yoga or Tai Chi. You’ll also want to eat healthy and get enough sleep.
It can be hard to know how to help a loved one with depression. The best advice? Help them see a mental health care provider. They’re experts in treating depression. You can also offer support and encouragement. Giving reminders to take medicine or providing rides to therapy appointments can help, too.
Increasing signs of depression can mean a higher suicide risk. These include:
Do you recognize these signs in yourself or a loved one? If you do, you’re not alone. And help is just one step away. You can:
About the author
Glenna C. Bailey is a health literacy champion, fan of the Apostrophe Protection Society and staunch supporter of the serial comma. She loves writing about consumer health and making info easier to find, understand and act on.
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Los enlaces a diversos sitios de Aetna Better Health y a otros que no son de Aetna Better Health solo se brindan para su conveniencia. Aetna Better Health of California no se hace responsable del contenido, la exactitud ni las prácticas de privacidad de los sitios enlazados que no sean de Aetna Better Health ni de los productos o servicios descritos en estos sitios.