Managing Symptoms of Depression

Loss of Interest or Pleasure

When you become depressed you may lose interest in things you once found enjoyable. Activities such as going out to dinner or a movie, visiting with friends, working, or doing hobbies are just not as interesting or enjoyable as they once were. This includes losing interest or desire in having sex.

What does NOT help loss of interest of pleasure:

• Withdrawing from family, friends, or otherwise isolating yourself.
• Discontinuing your regular activities whether they are big or small.

What can improve loss of interest or pleasure:

• Recognizing that depression causes you to have problems with finding things interesting or pleasurable. It is not some character flaw or “failure” on your part. When you are not depressed, you may not have such problems with loss of interest or pleasure.
• Continuing your regular activities. You may find you need to cut back on the number of activities you have or your involvement in them, but try not to eliminate them completely.
• Being careful not to withdraw from people who can support you while you are depressed. Seeking out support from family, friends, support groups, online communities, etc.

Hopelessness, Helplessness

Appetite, Weight Changes