People Who Beat Depression

Betty:
"I thought it was just the blues, but it went on for weeks and weeks. Some nights I could barely sleep—other times I slept until noon. I found I wasn't returning phone calls from friends. My family and friends noticed I wasn't myself. I didn't enjoy things I used to do—my garden, walking in the mornings at the mall with friends, seeing a movie. Was I going to feel this way forever?"

What worked for me: "When I went in for my regular check-up, my doctor noticed how down I was. He suggested that I go to see a counselor. I did and I started taking medicine. I had to try a couple of different types of medication before I saw results, but I stuck with it. In a few months, I was back in the swing again."

Arlene:
"Sure, I knew something was up. My daughter said I was short-tempered and irritable—not like myself. Some days, Lord—getting out of bed was too much. I prayed, thinking that if I had enough faith it would pass. I talked to my minister and he said to have faith, but to get help. He thought I might be depressed."

What worked for me: "I saw a doctor who told me my minister was right. He said that depression is a medical illness, but it's treatable. I got help. Now my daughter says I'm the mom she always knew."

Alma:
"I had an "ataque de nervios." I was crying a lot and I felt angry. I had trouble concentrating. I couldn't even get myself to church. My family was worried about me."

What worked for me: "I went to the health clinic a few blocks away. The doctor there was very kind and he listened to me. He told me that this problem is very common in people my age. He prescribed some medicine and I took it faithfully every day. I also talked to a counselor from the health clinic about my worries. After a few months of taking medication and talking with my counselor, I felt much better."


Not everyone becomes depressed in the same way. Some people have many symptoms, and some people have just a few.

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Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02215
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