With Mayo Clinic psychiatrist Gabrielle J. Melin, M.D.

Welcome to our depression blog. I am excited about this opportunity to provide information and stimulate discussion on depression.

I think it is important to know that depression is treatable. There is hope and medicine is making tremendous strides in understanding depression and how to best treat it. Depression can erode one's sense of self, self-esteem and self-confidence.

People describe not having the same zest for living that they normally do. Characteristic signs and symptoms that can accompany depression include depressed mood, decreased interest in pleasurable activities, sleep, energy, and appetite disturbance, feelings of guilt, hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness.

Thoughts of suicide also may accompany depression. Talking about suicide does not mean that one will act on the thoughts. It is imperative to ask for help so that treatment can begin as soon as possible. Use resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Be active in your treatment and make sure you're well-informed about your illness. Learning what steps you can take to manage your depression is empowering!

My hope is that the stories you share will help both yourself and others. Depression can feel like an ongoing battle at times. Instead, let's reframe depression as a chronic illness like diabetes or chronic pain. We don't have a cure, but there are tools that help you to manage depression effectively. You don't have to do it alone. Thanks, and I look forward to your comments.

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