A Look at Depression

societyofcare • June 2, 2022

Spread Awareness

Mental health awareness month is a time to celebrate and educate people about the importance of mental health. Today, we would like to focus on depression. Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in the United States, and it can have a devastating impact on people’s lives. In this blog post, we will discuss what depression is, how it relates to mental health and some treatment options for those who are struggling with this condition.

To view our visual Web Story for this blog post you can click here.

What is Depression?

Depression is a mental illness that is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty functioning. Depression can also cause physical symptoms like fatigue and sleep problems. People with depression may have trouble concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things. Depression can make it difficult to work, socialize, or take care of daily responsibilities.

Signs and Symptoms.

People with depression may also experience thoughts of worthlessness, hopelessness, or suicide. Depression is treatable, and there are many resources available for those who are struggling. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please reach out for help. There are many people who care about you and want to help you get through this difficult time.

Take Control.

If you or a loved one are struggling from depression there are steps you can take now to start on the road to healing and recovery.

Identify your support system and reach out to them when you're feeling down.

Identifying your support system is an important step in managing your depression. Your support system may include family and friends, therapist, or a support group. These are people who you can rely on for help and understanding. Reach out to your support system when you’re feeling down. They can offer you support and help you through tough times.

Talk to your doctor, mental health professional, or local Society of Care Navigator about your options for help.

Your doctor or mental health professional can help you understand your depression and develop a treatment plan. There are many different treatment options available for depression, and your doctor can help you find the one that is right for you. You may also want to talk to a local Society of Care Navigator about your options for help.

Create a healthy routine for yourself that includes regular exercise, healthy eating, and plenty of sleep.

A healthy routine is essential for managing depression. A routine that includes regular exercise, healthy eating, and plenty of sleep can help to reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Eating a healthy diet provides the nutrients needed for good mental health.

Challenge negative thoughts by writing down your thoughts and then refuting them with evidence.

This type of exercise can increase our mindfulness of our current situation and help us to slow down and think through what is causing our depression. Doing so can help us remember coping skills and quickly find solutions to alleviate the symptoms of depression.

Participate in activities that make you happy.

Simply taking actions to try and cheer ourselves up can be enough to turn a bad morning into a great day. Make a list of the things that genuinely make you happy. When you start to feel down refer to the list and engage in one of your favorite activities.

All of these things sound simple but taking action on them when we are feeling depressed can make these small tasks feel like large obstacles. The most important thing to know is that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please reach out for help. Many people care about you and want to help you get through this difficult time. Depression is a serious condition, but it is treatable. With the right resources and support, people can recover and live happy, healthy lives.

We Are Here To Help

If you think you or a loved one are needing help with anything above please reach out to our clinical partners at Morningstar Counseling.

The post A Look at Depression appeared first on .

Join Our Mailing List

Woman in yellow shirt smiles while writing at desk with laptop and pencils by window.
By Ben Keller September 11, 2025
Homework can sometimes feel overwhelming for children and stressful for caregivers. A calm and supportive environment helps children focus better, feel less anxious, and approach schoolwork with confidence.
Woman and child baking in a kitchen. The woman pours liquid from a bottle, and the child holds a spoon.
By Ben Keller September 4, 2025
One of the greatest gifts caregivers can give children is the ability to be independent. Encouraging independence does not mean stepping away completely.
Woman comforts a teen with her hand on their head, both looking down, outdoors.
By Ben Keller August 28, 2025
Stress is not only something adults experience. Children also feel stress as they navigate school, friendships, activities, and changes at home.
A young girl in a dress explores a field of tall, fluffy white grass and red flowers.
By Ben Keller August 21, 2025
As summer winds down, many families are busy preparing for the school year ahead. While schedules may be shifting, there’s still plenty of warm weather left to enjoy. Late summer can be a perfect time to explore sensory-friendly activities that keep children engaged, regulated, and connected. For caregivers, these activities are simple ways to encourage play, learning, and calm. Whether outdoors or indoors.
Woman points at laptop screen, helping a child with homework at a white desk in a bright room.
By Ben Keller August 14, 2025
The beginning of a new school year brings fresh opportunities and challenges for children and for the caregivers who support them. For those caring for children with special needs, medical conditions, or unique learning styles, this is the perfect time to set the tone for positive collaboration with teachers and school staff.
Three young men in a school hallway, one with an arm around another's shoulder, talking.
By Ben Keller August 8, 2025
August is often described as a bridge month. The intensity of summer may be winding down, but the demands of fall are just around the corner. For caregivers, it’s a season of transition and an ideal time to pause and assess your own needs before the full weight of school schedules, appointments, and changing routines begins.
By Ben Keller July 31, 2025
As kids return to school and fall schedules start to take shape, many families experience a bumpy adjustment period in the afternoons. Long school days can be overstimulating and draining, especially for children with disabilities, sensory sensitivities, or emotional regulation challenges. That’s where a calming after-school routine can make all the difference.
A woman in a pink jacket is sitting at a table with a young girl.
By Ben Keller July 24, 2025
Summer break can be a time of rest, fun, and freedom for young people, but it can also be an opportunity to connect across generations and help support caregiving in meaningful ways.
A mother and her daughter hugging and smiling.
By Ben Keller July 17, 2025
Summer might seem like a season of sunshine and relaxation, but for caregivers, it can often feel like anything but. Between shifting routines, school breaks, rising temperatures, and increased caregiving demands, burnout can sneak in faster than you think.
A young girl is sitting in front of a white brick wall holding a cell phone.
By Ben Keller July 10, 2025
The long days of summer may still be in full swing, but July is the perfect time to start easing into back-to-school planning especially for caregivers supporting children with disabilities, developmental differences, or mental health needs.