HIV and depression are common bedfellows. A new HIV diagnosis can be the trigger for depression. The first step in dealing with depression is identifying its signs and symptoms. Take a few minutes and review this guide that will help you help yourself.
Important Warning!
If you have thoughts of suicide or feel you want to hurt yourself seek professional assistance immediately.
Difficulty: Hard
Time Required: As long as you need
Here's How:
- Do you have thoughts of suicide?
- Is it hard for you to concentrate?
- Do you feel the pleasure and joy has gone from life?
- Do you find it difficult to make decisions?
- Are parts of life that used to be important now have little or no meaning?
- Do you have feelings of sadness and/or unhappiness?
- Do simple tasks require great effort to complete?
- Do you have feelings of guilt or failure?
- Does the the future seem hopeless?
- Have your sleep patterns changed?
- Do you have feelings of being trapped even when good things have happened?
Tips:
- Important Warning! - If you have thoughts of suicide or feel you want to hurt yourself seek professional assistance immediately.
- If you have any five of these indicators, you may be suffering from depression. Call your doctor for a formal evaluation and more information on the available treatments for depression.
