Being overly self-critical, drinking too much, losing a loved one, having a baby or difficulty expressing your frustrations may lead to depression.

If you believe you might be depressed ask yourself if any of the following ten symptoms apply. Are you:

• Feeling down?
• Not enjoying things you used to?
• Feeling like you don't have much energy?
• Having a hard time concentrating?
• Finding yourself thinking about suicide?
• Experiencing changes in your sleep?
• Eating a lot more or a lot less?
• Feeling frequent aches or pains?
• Crying more than normal?
• Feeling irritable?

If you are experiencing three or more of these symptoms you may be depressed. It is recommended that you contact a mental health professional to discuss your concerns.

Disclaimer: This checklist is not a substitute for counseling, psychological testing, or medical treatment.

(Sources include The American Medical Association Family Medical Guide and the American Psychiatric Association (2000), Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Mental Disorders IV)

If you are depressed and would like help or more information, call me at (206) 782-6216.