Everyone has normal mood swings in which he or she occasionally feels sad. But when that depressed mood lingers for more than two weeks, serious depression could be setting in. If this occurs, it might be appropriate for the person experiencing the depressed mood to seek help by talking to a mental health professional. Depressive disorders respond readily to treatments such as psychotherapy or appropriate medication. (See "Choosing The Right Mental Health Professional" and also Psychology Todays Find a Therapist Directory - http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/county/VA/Loudoun.html)
Changes in behavior and attitude - these include
- general slowing down or sleeping more
- not sleeping well, waking up early in the morning
- neglect of appearance and responsibilities
- trouble concentrating
- irritability
- poor memory
Different feelings and perceptions - these include
- loss of self-esteem
- hopelessness
- emotional flatness or emptiness
- loss of sexual desire
- inability to find pleasure in anything
- extreme self-blame or guilt
- suicidal thoughts or actions
Physical complaints - these include
- sleep disturbances
- chronic fatigue
- loss of appetite, or weight gain
- unexplained headaches, backaches
- digestive complaints
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If you or someone you know is in crisis, call
- 911 (local emergency services in Loudoun County)
- 703.777.0320 (Emergency Intervention Services, Loudoun County Mental Health)
- 703.547.4077 (Crisis Link Regional Hotline)
- 1.800.273.TALK (National Suicide Prevention Hotline)
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What is Mental Health | Child and Adolescent Mental Health | Recovery From Mental Illnesses |
Mental Illnesses and Disorders | Depression Screening Test |Suicide Prevention |
Warning Signs of Depression | Warning Signs of Stress | Warning Signs of Suicide
