Sadness is a normal human emotion. So, for someone to tell you to eliminate sadness from your life that is unrealistic. As with any human emotion, the key is how do you handle it. There are positive and negative ways to handle sadness and/or depression. They could affect people in many ways such as low energy, low motivation, sleep issues, loss of concentration, or just feeling like they have the blues. Let’s explore some of these coping strategies used to deal with sadness/depression:
Negative:
Drugs/Alcohol-most drugs and alcohol are depressants. Therefore, they will make an individual feel even more sad and depressed. Some drugs are stimulants. These will increase some low motivational drive. However, this is an unnatural/artificial experience that is not long lasting. These type of drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines are illegal and cause physical health issues. These items only mask symptoms of sadness and depression; they do not solve any problems. That is why you don't see physicians prescribe these types of drugs.
Gambling and/or Sex-these addictions can only cause problems in family, occupational, financial, and personal relationships. The "quick fix" feelings they give you are only temporary. Individuals will feel they have solved their problems by "getting on a winning streak" or "their luck is changing". New relationships can be exciting, but that changes as the relationship develops. These strategies are not long-lasting and truly do not solve any problems; they can only create more problems.
Avoidance and Isolation-this coping strategy only seems to cut individuals off from their positive support systems. I know people will say "I just need some time to myself". I understand this can be for a few days sort of a "mental health day". However, when this occurs for months, it is unhealthy. As human beings, we are social creatures even for individuals that do not have a large support system.
Suicide-there is no positive aspect of this strategy. The individual no longer must deal with any problems or conflicts, but the effects on family and friends are permanent on one's legacy. In addition, the family and friends must deal with the emotions of the individual's decision to kill themselves forever. Often when someone kills themselves, the family and friends are focused on how the individual died not the positive memories of their life.
Positive:
Exercise or any type of physical activity-I am not telling individuals to sign up for a marathon or triathlon to deal with sadness or depression. In general, sadness and depression can lead to a lack of motivation and energy. One way for individuals to overcome this symptom is to just get moving. Physical activity can generate positive effects in the body. So, taking a walk, hike, or bike ride can only lead to a positive way of dealing with sadness and/or depression.
Hobbies or activities such as gardening, knitting, chess, card games, dancing, reading, or sports can give one a positive outlet. These activities also give an opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people.
Social groups such as church or support groups will have various positive influences. These types of groups also can be very inexpensive if there are concerns about having a limited budget. These groups are usually based on having a strong sense of community and are willing to assist others in their community.
Professional counseling should be considered an option if one is struggling with sadness or depression for an extended period. A licensed professional counselor/social worker/psychologist can be very useful to guide an individual through their sadness or depression. They can also evaluate the mental health of their clients to determine if more advanced treatment is necessary.
Psychiatric medication is useful for individuals that are not responding to the positive coping strategies that have been discussed previously. These medications can only be prescribed by a licensed physician. Most psychiatric medications are prescribed by a psychiatrist; this is a type of physician that specializes in these medications. However, some general physicians prescribe certain psychiatric medications. My recommendation is to speak with your general physician about psychiatric medication, if they do not feel comfortable prescribing that type of medication then a referral can be made to a psychiatrist.
A medical examination can be very useful. Some types of sadness, depression, and low energy can be associated with legitimate medical problems. For example, individuals that have thyroid disorders, chronic pain, neurological conditions, hormonal imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies can have issues with sadness or depression. Having a medical evaluation with a physician can rule out these types of medical conditions that cause symptoms of sadness or depression.
Areas of Concern:
It concerns whether individuals are experiencing sadness or depression symptoms for an extended period. If experiencing symptoms for more than 3 months, then it is commonly recommended to seek some type of professional help or evaluation.
When experiencing sadness, depression, suicide, self-harm, or feelings of hurting others is concerning. If these types of feelings and actions are happening to you or someone you know, then immediate intervention is needed. Contacting 911 or going to the emergency room of a hospital are necessary. Individuals can also call the Crisis Line 988. However, if someone is currently in a mental health crisis the individual needs to be accessed immediately by a First Responder or mental health staff.
If an individual in a current mental health crisis is refusing to go to a hospital or seeking some type of professional evaluation there are steps that can be taken. However, to active these steps contact needs to be made with calling 911 and having First Responders (police or paramedic staff) to respond to the scene.
Bizelli Counseling Group:
The Bizelli Counseling Group consists of licensed professional counselors and social workers. These professionals have had years of experience working in the mental health field. These professionals evaluate their clients for the type of mental health treatment that might be beneficial. Their staff can assist with eliminating the negative coping strategies and work on developing the positive coping strategies. Counseling is not a one-time fix it is a process. To properly navigate this path, make sure there are licensed, trained counselors, social workers, or psychologists to assist.