When sadness wont go away: Checklist

Everyone feels sad or worried sometimes . . .

But if these feelings go on for more than a few weeks, or they start to interfere with your life, talk to a doctor about it! Because it doesn’t have to be like that . . .

If you feel sad or worried for more than a few weeks, this might be because you have depression or an anxiety disorder. A doctor can help treat this, so you feel better again.

Checklist
Tell the doctor if anything on this checklist describes how you feel or act –

- Feel unusually sad or worried for more than two weeks
- Lose interest in things you usually enjoy
- Feel guilty for no real reason
- Think you are worthless
- Are so worried sometimes, you feel shaky or have di|culty breathing
- Feel it wouldn’t matter if you died
- Abuse drugs or alcohol.
- Say or write things that don’t make sense
- Abuse drugs or alcohol.

How to get help

- Make an appointment to see a doctor.
- Ask for a longer appointment, so you have lots of time to explain what worries you.
- Be really honest about how you feel.
- Write some notes to take along, to help explain how you feel.
- If you are worried about someone else, encourage them to see a doctor. Offer to go with them, as a support.

How to get information
For information and advice, call the SANE Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263) 9-5 weekdays EST (request free InfoPack 24 hours) or email helpline@sane.org

Visit the SANE website at www.sane.org for Factsheets and other useful stuff.

To order resources visit the SANE Bookshop at www.sane.org or call 1800 18 SANE (7263).

SANE Australia. . . When sadness wont go away: Checklist

© SANE Factsheet 29
This Factsheet may be freely downloaded, copied and distributed on condition no change is made to the contents. SANE Australia is not responsible for any actions taken as a result of information or opinions contained in the Factsheet.
[Version English, 2010]

Resources

SANE Guide to Depression

The SANE Guide to Depression describes what depression actually means, explains how the various treatments for depression help, and gives practical steps to take in looking after yourself.

Visit the SANE Bookshop to order your copy.

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