Depression and COPD Often Go Hand in Hand.

It's normal to experience feelings of sadness when facing any chronic illness. And with COPD, depression may arise when it becomes hard to do things previously enjoyed — like engaging in sports, or even just attending events and activities. This can lead a person to start losing a sense of self, or feel isolated.

It's important to know that being clinically depressed is more than simple sadness or irritability — and understand that it can be common. So keep the risk for depression in mind and alert your healthcare provider if you feel any of these signs:

• Depressed mood, loss of energy, or feeling very tired
• Lack of interest in things you normally enjoy
• Trouble concentrating
• Changes in sleep patterns, such as difficulty sleeping
• Noticeable weight loss in a short period of time
• Loss of appetite
• Crying for no reason
• Feelings of hopelessness or intense sadness
• Thoughts of suicide
• Irritability

Try these tactics to improve your mood.

In addition to talking to your doctor, you can help lift your spirits by keeping yourself occupied and connecting with others, through:

• Joining support groups specifically geared toward the challenges of living with COPD.
  You can find many online just by doing a quick search
• Trying new hobbies, meeting new people, or deepening existing friendships
• Staying physically active. Not only does exercise help strengthen your body, it also releases endorphins to elevate your mood