Warning Signs for Depression
Terry Harrell, JD and LCSW

• Depressed mood
• Diminished interest or pleasure in previously important activities, lack of motivation
• Significant weight loss or gain 
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Fatigue
• Feelings of worthlessness 
• Feelings of excessive or inappropriate guilt
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Neglect of responsibilities
• Withdrawal from others, isolating
• Thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or suicide attempts

It is important to look for changes from the person's previous functioning. Some people are always a little irritable and some people function well with four hours of sleep. It is when your easygoing friend becomes irritable or your spouse who normally sleeps eight hours starts sleeping four hours that you should be concerned. Any sudden change in mood or behavior is worth exploring.

Most states have resources for assisting judges and their family members with information and referrals to help with depression, alcohol and drug problems, and other health challenges.

If you, a colleague, judge, or law student you know is suffering from an addictive or compulsive disorder, stress, depression, or other mental health problem you can call the ABA Service Center at 800-285-2221 and ask for the Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs (Extension 5359). You will be given the number of the lawyer assistance program or committee in your area from which you can obtain completely confidential referrals.

Author Terry Harrell is Executive Director of the Indiana Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP)

Calls to JLAP and similar organizations in other states are strictly confidential.