Content Warning: This blog discusses the symptoms of depression, including suicidal thoughts or behaviors, and may be difficult for some readers.
Sometimes, it’s normal to feel down or sad, but if these feelings last for more than two weeks and interfere with daily life, you may have depression. It’s important to seek help so that you can find ways to cope and get back on your feet. With the right treatment and support, many people can find relief from their symptoms of depression.
Contact Northpoint Seattle at 888.483.6031 or reach out to us online to learn about our depression treatment program and try these fun fall activities to improve your mood.
What Is Depression?
Depression is an illness that affects how a person feels, behaves, and thinks. It can affect every aspect of life and may even lead to suicide if left untreated. Common symptoms of depression include:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Poor concentration and difficulty making decisions
- Suicidal thoughts or thoughts of death
- Self-medication with drugs or alcohol leading to addiction
Depression is more than feeling sad for a few days; the symptoms can last for weeks, months, and even years if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many resources available for individuals struggling with depression—including activities and hobbies one can do independently to boost mood.
Still, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare provider if you’re feeling overwhelmed or are having thoughts of suicide. With the proper treatment, depression can be managed, and people can get back to living healthy, productive lives.
Fall Activities To Improve Your Mood
The changing of the season and the arrival of fall can bring about a sense of optimism for the future. With the leaves beginning to change color, cooler temperatures, and shorter days, it is easy to feel a bit blue about the end of summer. But don’t worry! There are many activities you can do in autumn that will help make your mood brighter:
- Go for a hike – Take some time to enjoy the beauty of nature and get in some physical activity at the same time. Hiking is an excellent way to destress, clear your head, and even reconnect with loved ones.
- Cozy up with a good book – Fall is a great time to catch up on all those books you’ve been meaning to read. Spend some time curling up with a good book and escape to another world for a few hours.
- Bake something delicious – Nothing warms the soul quite like freshly baked goods. Take advantage of the cooler weather and whip up something tasty in your kitchen! Plus, who can resist the smell of pumpkin spice everything?
- Head to a pumpkin patch – Fall is the perfect time to get creative and decorate with pumpkins! Head down to your local pumpkin patch for some seasonal fun and come back home with handmade decorations for the season.
- Go camping – Get out of your comfort zone and enjoy a night under the stars. Camping is an excellent way to reconnect with nature and remind yourself of the beauty outside of your daily routine.
No matter what activity you choose, make sure to take time for yourself this season and enjoy all that autumn has to offer. However, if your depression symptoms are severe and overwhelming, or you are having thoughts of suicide, reach out for help. There are many benefits to getting professional help and treatment for depression.
The Importance of Getting Help for Depression
Getting help for depression is incredibly important. Professional support can be the key to helping you develop healthier coping strategies, manage your symptoms, and ultimately lead a more fulfilling life. The benefits of getting help are vast; research suggests that individuals with depression who take part in psychotherapy experience significant decreases in their depressive symptoms and an improved sense of well-being. Therapy can also teach individuals how to self-regulate emotions, manage stress more effectively, and develop positive relationships with others.
Medication is another treatment option for those struggling with depression. While it cannot fix the underlying issues of depression alone, taking medication can make symptoms less severe and often easier to manage. It’s important to note that medication should always be taken in conjunction with psychotherapy for the best results.
It’s also important to seek help sooner rather than later. Early treatment can reduce the severity of depression, as well as reduce the risk that symptoms will become worse over time. Individuals should talk to a doctor or therapist if they are experiencing feelings of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in activities, or difficulty sleeping. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you need it.
Find Help for Depression in Washington at Northpoint Seattle
If your depression is severe or has lasted for a long time, it’s important to seek professional help from your doctor. A wide variety of treatments, such as medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle change, and support groups, are available to treat depression. Depending on your individual circumstances, a combination of treatments may be the most effective way to manage your depression. Contact Northpoint Seattle at 888.483.6031 or online to get the help you need today.
You are not alone. If you are struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts/behaviors, dial 988 to talk to someone at The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.