When you imagine the future, what do you see? 17.3 million American adults struggle to answer that question. They live with major depression, a common mood disorder. Depression can transform their outlook, disrupt relationships, and corrupt their thought processes. If you haven’t been feeling like yourself, it isn’t too late to pursue depression treatment.
We’ve created this guide to help you learn about this common mental health condition. We’ll include details about the causes and symptoms of this disruptive disorder. Finally, we’ll point you toward one of the best sources of depression treatment in Florida.
Continue reading to learn how to pursue help for major depressive disorder.
Depression is a mental illness that affects your thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Many people equate the word “depression” with sadness.
While sadness has a direct trigger, depression may not. Likewise, sadness passes quickly. Depression lingers.
Most cases of depression do involve a low or depressed mood. Often, depressed individuals lose interest in activities and people they once cared about. They may struggle to maintain relationships and complete tasks of daily living.
Depression can manifest in many ways, and no two cases look alike. Likewise, the causes of this disorder vary from person to person. A family history of mood disorders affects your likelihood of developing the condition.
Other possible causes may include the following:
Certain medications can also increase your risk of depression.
Furthermore, studies suggest women are more likely to experience depression than men. Some believe that hormonal changes play a significant role.
Early studies suggest that your brain structure may play a role. Some researchers have found a link between hippocampus size and mood disorders. However, a larger sample size is necessary before we can further generalize.
In the beginning, depression may feel a lot like sadness. In general, however, depression lasts longer. Many people become aware they have a problem when the symptoms start to impact their quality of life.
Often, by the time an individual recognizes that they have a problem, they begin to feel a sense of shame. This can make it more challenging to reach out for help and support. Isolation can further perpetuate a depressed mood, creating a vicious cycle.
The ability to spot the signs of depression early will ensure you receive the help you need. The most common symptoms include:
Sometimes, depressed individuals experience suicidal thoughts or ideation. This can be a psychiatric emergency. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
When practitioners discuss depression, they generally mean Major Depressive Disorder. Several other mental health conditions can mimic the symptoms of depression.
This can include postpartum depression. That is depression experienced after giving birth.
It can also include Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is depression experienced during winter due to circadian changes.
Depression can also be comorbid with other mental health conditions. These include bipolar disorder and certain psychotic disorders.
If you have experienced depression symptoms, always begin with a mental health evaluation. Your doctor can help identify the correct diagnosis and treatment.
The good news is that many treatment options are available for individuals with depression. A mental health professional can help you create a personalized treatment plan. Both inpatient and outpatient options effectively address the disorder’s symptoms.
You might benefit from a combination of different types of therapy for depression. We’ll describe some common treatment options below.
In individual therapy, you’ll speak to a therapist or counselor one-on-one. You’ll process your feelings, thoughts, and emotions in a safe environment. Your therapist will teach you coping strategies to use as you attempt to make positive changes.
Your practitioner may use DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) or CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). They may also practice EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), which can help with trauma.
It’s common for people with depression to isolate or withdraw from social situations. Often, this is due to shame. You might feel like no one understands what you’re going through or falsely assume your presence is hurting others.
In group therapy, you’ll be part of a cohort of individuals who understand. You’ll be able to speak about your symptoms and struggles without fear of judgment. A trained therapist will facilitate the conversation, helping you build connections safely.
Depression is often caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Medication can help address the medical causes of the condition. Many individuals find that a combination of medication and therapy is vital to long-term wellness.
If you’ve felt depressed for a long time, you might need a pleasurable outlet. Holistic therapies use recreational activities to facilitate healing. You might enjoy art, music, or exercise as part of your treatment plan.
If you’re struggling to find joy and motivation, it’s time to pursue wellness. Comprehensive Wellness Centers offers highly effective inpatient and outpatient depression treatment in Florida. You’ll receive personalized, state-of-the-art therapy at our comfortable, home-like facilities in Lantana.
The first step toward finding help with depression is contacting our admissions department. A kind, knowledgeable associate will direct you toward the most appropriate treatment option. We can’t wait to welcome you to our community at one of Florida’s most effective depression rehab centers.
