Depression-it's a heavy word, but JFS can help

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that depression impacts one in 10 Americans. On Aug. 11, Oscar-winning actor and comedian Robin Williams took his own life after battling with depression for countless years. It’s a taboo illness that can strike anybody, at any time in life. JFS Orlando recognizes depression may be far more common amongst our peers than we may realize, and offers counseling to those fighting the mental illness.

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ministration estimates that 90 percent of all suicides are linked to depression or another related mental illness.

The death of a public figure is tragic, but in times of darkness there are glimmers of light. JFS Orlando is mourning the loss of Robin Williams alongside the rest of the world, but his death helps pry open a closed door and shed a much-needed light on a very dark topic.

JFS Orlando understands that depression is more than just feeling down or having a bad day; depression is real and is not a weakness. It is a mental health illness that brings on long-term, persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness that are unshakeable. These feelings linger, often interfering with a person’s relationships and daily responsibilities.

Everybody experiences depression differently, and it is imperative to remember that stressful and sad events occur in everyone’s life, but constant feelings of misery and emptiness are not normal.

Depression is a treatable condition, and JFS Orlando can help. We have identified some of the major symptoms of depression below:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood

• Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping more than usual

• Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain

• Loss of pleasure and interest in once-enjoyable activities

• Restlessness and irritability

• Difficulty concentrating at work or at school, or difficulty remembering things or making decisions

• Fatigue or loss of energy

• Feeling guilty, hopeless, or worthless

• Thoughts of suicide or death

If you or anyone you know experiences five or more of these symptoms for two weeks or longer, it could be signs of depression. JFS Orlando’s professional mental health therapists can see you through the tough times. Change begins with a phone call. Call us at 407-644-7593