What is depression? Well, it can be a lot of things. Basically, depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss, less interest in things and activities you once enjoyed. It can also cause difficulty with thinking, memory, eating and sleeping. It can also be accompanied by feelings of anxiety.
While it's normal to feel sad about or grive over difficult life situations, depression is different in that it persists practically every day for a period of time and involves symptoms other than sadness alone, such as anger, irritablity, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, difficulty making decisions or remembering things, low energy, thoughts of self-harm, and physica issues like headaches or stomachaches, for example.
WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION?
The causes of depression are varied: brain chemistry imbalances, genetics, stressful life events, medical conditions and some medications.
HOW IS DEPRESSION DIAGNOSED?
Our therapists diagnose depression based on a thorough understanding of your symptoms, medical history and mental health history. In your first therapy session, a thorough assessment that covers different areas of your life will be obtained.
HOW IS DEPRESSION TREATED?
Depression is a treatable mental health condition. Approximately 80-90% of people with depression who seek treatment eventually respond well to treatment.
Treatment options include psychotherapy, or talk therapy to identify and change unhelpful emotions and thoughts. It can also involve addressing situations in your life that cause or contribute to your depression.
Prescription medication such as antidepressants can help change the brain chemistry that causes depression. You may have to try more than one to find the best antidepressant that works for you.
Other things that will relieve depression and your therapist will suggest are: regular exercise, getting quality sleep, eating a healthy diet, and spending time with people and doing activities that bring you satisfaction. Managing stress with healthy coping mechanisms and practicing regular self-care activities are also key to feeling better.