By the Reverend Dr. Ray Wm. Smith,
National Board-Certified Counselor and Coach

Signs of Depression:

If you (or people close to you) have been experiencing a few of the signs of depression most of the day, about every day, for two weeks or longer, you may suffer from depression:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
• Irritability
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities you used to enjoy
• Decreased energy or fatigue even after sleeping
• Moving or talking more slowly lately
• Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Appetite and/or weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment

Depression can be a severe mood disorder affecting how you feel, think, and handle the activities of daily living, like sleeping, eating, or going to work.

Depression can manifest in several different forms and most of them or highly treatable.

To investigate your level of depression, please make an appointment for a complete evaluation by calling the Healthy Counseling Center for help at (509) 466-6632.