JTMS Counseling Newsletter
March 22, 2021
JUST THE FACTS!
…… About DEPRESSION
Are you sad, or are you depressed? Is there a difference? YES.
Often people use the word “depressed” when they really mean they are sad about
something happening in their lives, for example an argument with a friend, a breakup,
someone moving away, getting poor grades, or losing a game. The sadness we feel
when someone close to us dies is known as grief. Feeling sad is a normal, human
emotion, a normal reaction to difficult things in life. Usually, people manage to cope
with troubling times and move on with life.
Depression is different. It’s more than just feeling sad about something that has
happened. While we can overcome normal sadness, depression can be an
overwhelming sadness, hopelessness, discouragement or despair that lasts for a long
time. Depression can affect a person in any of the following ways:
- Interferes with thinking
- Can’t enjoy things in life
- Cannot concentrate
- Self-critical, feeling guilty or rejected or worthless
- Focus on the negative things
- Have little motivation or energy
- Withdraw from others
- Physical problems (stomach problems, headaches, problems eating or sleeping)
The good news – depression CAN get better with the right care. There are simple steps
you can take that can help your depressed mood such as a healthy diet, good sleeping
habits and exercise. Try to focus on the positive and do things you enjoy. Believe it or
not, all of these things affect your brain chemistry to help the way you feel. Finally, talk
to your parents, your doctor or your counselor. They can help you to find the right
combination of solutions that will help.
REMINDER: Three Months of Giving!
'Kids Giving To Kids'
Essentials With Miss Ellingsen
How to Build Confidence
JTMS School Counseling Department
Miss Ellingsen, Mrs. Lewandowski, Mrs. LaCatena, and Ms. Martino
Email: orusynko@jefftwp.org
Website: https://www.jefftwp.org/Domain/9
Location: 1000 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge, NJ, USA
Phone: 973-697-1980
Twitter: @JTMSCounseling