1 minute read

HeYouralth

How do you know when it’s “just the blues” caused by recent events, or when it’s something more serious, like depression? And how do you even begin the process of getting better?

The constant uncertainty and stress of the pandemic, the upheaval of routines, loss of self-care opportunities, and the news (climate change, the war in Ukraine, the recent mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde) is enough to spiral the heartiest of us into depression and keep us there. If you’re concerned about your mental health or that of a loved one, you’re not alone Mental health problems have been on the rise

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina medical director Dr. Ish Bhalla said there are some signs of depression to be looking for.

“Life has been hard for all of us the past two years,” he said. “But there comes a point when you have to ask yourself, is this just part of the human experience, or is this something that would benefit from medical treatment?”

He pointed to these classic symptoms of depression:

Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or too little).

Changes in appetite (eating too much or not enough).

Changes in mood; irritability.

Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

Low energy; persistent fatigue

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to reach out for help.

Continued on Page 6

This article is from: