M A J O R    D E P R E S S I V E    D I S O R D E R

According to the American Psychiatric Association, one in six people will experience depression in their life.

Warning Signs/SYMPTOMS ⚠︎︎

Symptoms of depression can be different for every person. Below are some potential signs.
  • Fatigue
  • Feeling sad or empty 
  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness 
  • Hard to do simple tasks
  • Irritable 
  • Insomnia or hypersomnia 
  • Social isolation or loneliness 
  • Feeling of numbness
  • Feeling like a burden
  • Inability to see a future
  • Change in appetite (loss or increase)
  • Anhedonia
  • Loss of interest in things that bring pleasure 
  • Self-hate
  • Lack of control
  • Constantly overwhelmed 
  • Suicidal ideation

Risk Factors

Some may be at higher risk of having depression if they have experienced any of the following:
  • ​Trauma or abuse
  • Major illness or injury​
  • Certain medications
  • Genetics
  • ​Major life changes
  • Death of someone close
  • Major conflict/stress
  • Substance abuse

​How to Help

  • Immediate danger: Call 911
  • If you have depression:
    • Find support groups.
    • Seek treatment from professionals.
    • Talk to someone you trust. 
    • Consider psychotherapy.
    • Challenge your negative thoughts - "What would I tell someone I care about if they had this thought?"
    • Set goals for yourself.
    • Use a daily planner to stay organized and motivated.
    • Educate yourself about your illness. 
    • Reach out & stay connected with friends/family.
    • Encourage yourself to meet new people.
    • Go on a walk to clear your mind.
    • Do things that you enjoy.
    • Make sure you are getting the right amount of sleep. 
    • Play with a pet - Pets are know to boost serotonin & dopamine levels.  
  • If you know someone with depression:
    • Stay positive & hopeful.
    • Encourage them to seek treatment/therapy.
    • Ask them what they need from you - Everyone is different. The best way to know what they need is to ask them!
    • Offer compassion & support.
    • Don't be judgmental - Respect that their pain is real.
    • Help them celebrate the small wins.
    • Educate yourself on their type of depression.
    • Make plans with them & show you care.
    • Make sure they know they are not a burden.
    • Check up on them periodically. 
    • Watch for sign of suicide.
    • If they need it, give them space but don't give up on them. 
    • Don't take it personally if they are distant.
    • Share something positive that made you think about them.
    • Don't criticize them for not feeling motivated to do certain tasks - Depression can drain a lot of energy.
    • Thank them for being so strong!
    • Take care of yourself too - don't poor all of your energy onto one person. Learn to create boundaries and focus on your personal mental wellness. 

Help Resources

  • Depression Chat Rooms: CLICK HERE
  • The Hopeline (2pm-12am CT): CLICK HERE
  • Help Guide: CLICK HERE
  • Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals: CLICK HERE
  • Teen Line (12-19):  (310) 855 4673 OR Text TEEN to 839863
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264​
  • Anxiety and Depression Association of America  1-240-485-1001
  • CDC Division of Mental Health: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)

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