Psychologist, Julianne M. Noll, addresses this edition's important issue......
clinical depression and what you can do about it..



"I'm feeling tired all the time, sleeping and eating more lately. I hardly feel myself. What's wrong with me?"

How many of us have heard people say, "Geez, being a parent is harder than any job I've ever had!" And being a single parent is twice as hard! So, there will be times when you feel tired, down in the dumps, and just plain worn out.

However, there are some indicators, that if present, may be telling you that you might have a clinical depression brewing. Clinical depressions can result from the body being bombarded too much and too long with a large amount of stress. There is even a biochemical change that can occur in the brain. And no, this does not mean you are going crazy! Your body is trying as hard as it can to deal with the stress, but sometimes it's just too much for anyone to handle.

So, if you find yourself having any of these signs, it might be a good idea to seek help from a professional for a thorough assessment.

1. Depressed mood, most of the day, nearly every day.
2. Loss of pleasure in daily activities or feelings of emptiness.
3. Change in eating habits (weight loss or weight gain.)
4. Change in sleeping habits (sleeping too much or having insomnia.)
5. Fatigue or loss of energy.
6. Feelings of helplessness and/or hopelessness.
7. Difficulty concentrating
8. Thoughts of suicide.

If you find you have at least 5 of these symptoms, you could be suffering from a clinical depression. The good news is that depression is easily treated and the most effective approach is a combination of medication and some short-term psychotherapy. Chances are, your depression is "situational" and within a short time you can be feeling like your old self again.

So, if you find yourself saying, "Yes, that's me" to many of these symptoms, I encourage you to seek out help. You can begin that process by getting a referral from your family physician, or there are usually community service organizations in most cities that would be able to give you a referral. Referrals from friends can be helpful too. (And by the way, here are some of the titles of those professionals licensed to see you:)

• Ph.D. -- Clinical Psychologist
• LCSW -- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• MFCC or MFT -- Marriage, Family & Child Counselor
• MD -- Medical Doctor who specializes in psychiatry.

One more thought: When you call to make an appointment with a therapist, remember that you are the consumer. Before making setting up a time to meet, you have every right to expect that the therapist will spend a few minutes on the telephone with you, and will answer any questions you might have. These can include their fee, their method of treating depression, or where they received their training. It is important that you have a positive experience in receiving the help you need and deserve, and finding the right "fit" with a therapist is of utmost importance!

As I said before, parenting is always a challenge, and sometimes can be overwhelming. Be good to yourself. If you are having symptoms of depression, please reach out, and get the help you deserve!