Behavior; General slowdown of reactions, movement, thinking. (Lethargic) Loss of self-esteem, neglects appearance. Change of appetite and sleep patterns. Physical aspects make person feel more legitimate in their depression state. (Somatize - problem is physical rather than mental).

Anger; Person has a great deal of un-expressed anger. Probably a long-term buildup.

Relationships; Person is withdrawn, isolates, decreased sex drive. Diminished needs (feels tired).
Causes; LOSS - of relationship - family or friend, health, career, sometimes property.

Self-esteem - Is it based on self love - internal? How much is it based on external (environmental) comparisons and influences?

Perfect Self vs. Despised Self; Depressed people may have an idealized idea or notion of the perfect self and despised self. Usually the first followed by the second. They are often functionally depressed (not in the hospital).

Solutions; When asked what they like it is usually nothing. Focus attention on what they used to like.
Encourage them to reach out and ask for what they want.
Suggest exercise and nutrition.

Help them explore ways of doing this.

Help them focus on their strengths.

Depression can be a habit. Ways of thinking can be habit forming and feelings come from thinking.

Help them accept themselves.

Watch out for their two extremes - Taking all or none of the responsibility. (Black or white, no greys).
We create our own reality, "I think therefore I am". Thoughts are real to us - a form of energy.

The universal law states "like attracts like". We see reality through the filter of our own thinking.
(What is reality after it has passed through the filter of my mind?)

Self-fulfilling prophecy says it didn't just happen, we attracted it. Seeking positive will replace negative. There are also "givens". How do we respond to them? Is this response a positive or negative one?

We must learn to choose the high road. We must understand that depressed people are not their depression.
Help them step back and observe their own thinking and behavior.
Change the behavior to change the feeling.
Help them learn to relax, use imagery.
Help them forgive self and/or others.
Have an ongoing program until the change has become a habit.

geh 6/20/87                                                    Back to Main Page                                   Menu of Pages