Support Systems
One of the keys to good emotional health is a good support system. Most of us are born with a support system––our families. As we get older, the system expands to include peers and, as we move into the work world, colleagues. Amazingly this process happens with little attention from us. But we would certainly take notice if the people who make up our support systems suddenly disappeared. What is a support system?
A support system is a network of people who provide an individual with practical or emotional support. In real life, your support system is the people you connect with. We are part of their support system, too. Some connections may be stronger than others, but they are all important. Why is a strong support system important?
Most human beings like interacting with other human beings. Going through life alone is difficult. Support systems are also important in managing stress, which is important to physical, as well as emotional, health. Individuals and families living with CF experience many stressful situations. A strong support system is helpful in maintaining a sense of normalcy, which helps lower stress levels. Also, a strong support system can help CF patients feel connected, even when they’re isolated because of infection control issues. The professionals at your CF center are a good source of support. The Facts on Depression
It’s normal to feel sad sometimes. According to the American Psychiatric Association, one in 10 Americans suffer from depression each year. Unfortunately, many people go undiagnosed and untreated because they didn’t know that they were depressed or they were afraid of being labeled mentally ill. Having a chronic illness like CF puts one at higher risk for becoming depressed. Depression can interfere with your ability to keep up with your CF treatment regimen, so it’s important to get help. It is possible to experience symptoms of depression without being diagnosed as clinically depressed, but you should let a professional make that determination. Symptoms
You should talk with your doctor or social worker at your CF center if you experience one or more of the following symptoms for 2 weeks or more:
• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness, or anger and irritability.
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual.
• Loss of interest in activities.
• Changes in appetite with either significant weight loss or weight gain.*
• Loss of energy for no reason.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Frequent thoughts of death or suicide. *Because CF care often focuses on weight, changes in appetite or weight could also be symptoms of something besides depression. These symptoms are some of the general symptoms used to diagnose depression. They are NOT meant to be a way for you to diagnose yourself or someone else with depression. These symptoms should help you to determine whether you or someone you know need further evaluation by a professional. For more information, check out the American Psychiatric Association’s website. 
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