Feeling sad, low, or “down” is part of life for all people. However, some people live with a mental health condition called depression. Depression and sadness are not the same thing. Depression is a serious condition that can affect every aspect of a person’s health and well-being.
Depression typically responds well to treatment. Getting treatment as soon as you recognize the symptoms of depression can have the best outcomes. Early treatment gives you the best chance at managing your symptoms effectively.
This article will explore depression and how to treat it. You will learn:
- The symptoms of depression
- How professionals diagnose depression
- What to expect from therapy for depression
- Where to find effective mental health treatment in Fort Pierce
If you or someone you love lives with symptoms of depression, treatment and counseling are available at Agape Behavioral Health. Contact our specialists to learn more about depression treatment in Fort Pierce or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Depression?
Depression is a common mood disorder. Millions of people around the world experience mental health issues, including depression. The symptoms of depression can impact a person’s mood, relationships, behaviors, and thoughts. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s daily functioning.
While many people think of “depression” and “sadness” as the same condition, they are different. Depression is a serious mental health condition that typically lasts for a long time. Sadness is a temporary emotion that all people experience from time to time.
Here is a brief overview of the several types of depression.
Major depression
Major depression causes symptoms that impact a person’s daily functioning for two weeks or more. During an episode of major depression, people may lose interest in activities. They may experience a low mood and feel tired. They may have low energy, affecting their ability to get things done. The symptoms of major depression may affect a person’s sleep patterns, ability to work, and other aspects of daily life.
Perinatal depression
Perinatal depression can occur during pregnancy or after giving birth. Prenatal depression occurs when a person is pregnant, and post-partum depression occurs after birth.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) causes symptoms of depression that follow seasonal patterns. People may develop SAD symptoms during the Fall when daylight is shorter. In rarer cases, people may develop depressive symptoms in the Spring and Summer. Symptoms of SAD typically resolve when the seasons change.
Persistent depressive disorder
Persistent depressive disorder causes long-lasting, less severe symptoms of depression. People with this condition may experience depressive symptoms for at least two years. Some mental health professionals refer to this condition as “dysthymia” or “dysthymic disorder.”
People who have bipolar disorder also experience periods of depression. Depression can also be a symptom of other mental health and medical conditions, including anxiety disorders and thyroid conditions.
Symptoms of Depression
Recognizing the symptoms of depression is the first step toward getting effective treatment. According to the American Psychological Association, some of the most common symptoms of depression include:
- Feeling hopeless
- Frequent irritability or frustration
- Feelings of guilt, shame, and worthlessness
- Fatigue or feeling “slowed down”
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Low mood
- Physical pain without a clear cause, including headaches, body aches, stomach discomfort, etc.
- Difficulty with sleep, including having trouble falling asleep, waking too early, or sleeping excessively
- Negative thoughts
- Thinking about death or having suicidal thoughts
Experiencing some of these symptoms for two weeks or more may mean you could benefit from treatment for depression. If you or someone in your life struggles with symptoms of depression, seek treatment right away. Depression is a mental health problem that can get better with treatment.
Understanding a Depression Diagnosis
Medical and mental health professionals use a variety of tools to diagnose depression. You may undergo a mental health assessment that includes:
- A physical examination to rule out health conditions that cause depression symptoms
- A psychiatric evaluation, including questions about your symptoms and behaviors
- Lab testing to identify physical conditions that could cause depression symptoms
- Criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
Doctors and mental health professionals use a range of tests to determine the cause of a person’s depression. This thorough diagnosis process allows specialists to recommend the best types of psychotherapy. This can help people find the correct treatment to treat their unique symptoms.
What to Expect from Therapy for Depression
Treatment for depression can vary from person to person based on their unique needs. Typically, depression treatment may include specialized types of therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.
Antidepressant medications
Some people use prescription medications to reduce symptoms of depression. People work with their medical professionals to find a drug with minimal side effects and the most effectiveness.
Talking therapy
People may attend regular therapy sessions to address the roots of their depression. Common therapies for depression include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – CBT helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to depression, teaching coping skills to manage emotions and improve daily functioning.
- Psychodynamic therapy – This approach explores unconscious thoughts and past experiences, helping individuals gain insight into the root causes of their depression for long-term emotional relief.
- Interpersonal therapy – IPT focuses on improving relationships and social interactions by addressing issues like grief, role changes, and conflicts, reducing depressive symptoms by strengthening social connections.
- Couples therapy – Couples therapy can address relationship dynamics that may worsen depression, helping partners communicate better and work together to create a supportive environment for recovery.
During therapy, people work with a licensed mental health provider to process emotions and experiences. They may set goals, learn new coping skills, and more.
Other therapies
There are many other therapies and treatments that may help to alleviate depression symptoms. Some of these include:
- Brain stimulation
- Light therapy
- Exercise
- Nutrition therapy
- Mindfulness-based therapy
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
It is critical to work with a mental health professional to find the right course of treatment. Depression typically responds to treatment, but it is crucial to find the right therapies to address your needs.
Find Therapy for Depression in Fort Pierce
If you or someone you love lives with symptoms of depression, you are not alone. Agape Behavioral Center is a Fort Pierce-based inpatient mental health treatment center dedicated to providing top-quality care and personalized treatment plans for all individuals struggling with mental illness. Our unique approach incorporates evidence-based therapies as well as holistic methods designed to foster the healing of mind, body, and spirit.
Contact the Agape Behavioral Healthcare specialists to learn more about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
