Depression
Disorders
Disorders
Depression Disorders
Most people experience feelings of sadness at different moments; however, these feelings usually pass with time. Clinical depression is different. It can cause severe symptoms that affect how someone feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. Depression can affect anyone—regardless of age, race, income, culture, or education. Research suggests that genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors all can play a role in depression.
Types of Depression:
- Major Depression: Defined by symptoms of depression existing daily for at least 2 weeks, typically interfering with one’s ability to work, sleep, study, and eat.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Often includes less severe symptoms of depression that last much longer, for 2 years or more.
- Perinatal Depression: Occurs during pregnancy or after delivery (postpartum depression).
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Comes and goes with the seasons, typically starting in late fall and early winter and going away during spring and summer.
Common Symptoms of Depression:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies or activities
- Decreased energy, fatigue, or being “slowed down”
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause
- Suicide attempts or thoughts of death or suicide
Diagnosis of Depression:
Diagnosing depression involves a comprehensive assessment by healthcare professionals. This process includes clinical interviews, where detailed discussions of symptoms, medical history, and the impact on daily life are conducted. Psychological evaluations are utilized, involving standardized questionnaires and assessments to evaluate the severity and nature of the depression. This thorough approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and helps in formulating an effective treatment plan.
Treatment and Support for Depression:
- Psychotherapy: Various modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy, to help individuals manage and reduce depressive symptoms.
- Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating healthy habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices to improve overall well-being.
- Support Groups: Participation in support groups where individuals with depression can share experiences and coping strategies.
- Neurofeedback: A form of biofeedback that involves real-time monitoring of brain activity, allowing individuals to learn self-regulation techniques that can potentially reduce depressive symptoms and improve overall mental health.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression, please contact us to schedule an appointment or learn more about our treatment options.
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