Depression Awareness – Choose to Live Your Best

When we think of October, thoughts of the beauty of the changing seasons come to mind. The turning of the leaves and cool crispness of the air excites us. October may also bring to mind awareness for breast cancer, but did you know it is also a time to invest in your mental health? Depression awareness means understanding more about what depression is and seeking the tools needed to live your happiest life.

Do you find yourself feeling persistently sad, empty, or anxious? Do you have daily struggles of fatigue, feeling hopeless, or a loss of interest in things you normally love to do? If you feel that any of these symptoms describe your experiences from day to day, don’t wait to start the healing process.  Depression is NOT just a  part of someone’s personality or “who they are.” It is a mental disorder that can severely impair the everyday functioning of an individual. Getting enough sleep, eating a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential, but often more help is required.

Seeking professional help for depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders greatly improves the outlook on these challenges. Opening up about what is going on in your own mind can seem scary and even embarrassing, but it can be the first big step on the road to mental wellness. Dr. Joseph Watson adds his thoughts on the matter, “Depression is pervasive throughout every society and unfortunately, it can lead to death. In fact, suicide is one of the leading killers of people in our community. We need to be brave enough to talk about this.”

Set up an appointment today with your primary care doctor (Rexburg Medical Clinic: 208-356-5401) or a mental health professional for a mental health screening or just to talk about what your experiencing. If your thinking about hurting yourself,  immediately call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.