SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION: THE UNSEEN EPIDEMIC
Depression affects over 300 million lives worldwide. However, that figure only represents those who’ve received a medical diagnosis. While unknown, the actual number is much, much more significant. Unfortunately, society’s understanding of the mood disorder is quite limited, often leaving friends and family members of the affected confused and unable to help. Depression – either clinical or major depressive disorder – is a severe mental health condition that requires medical care and lifestyle alteration. If you believe you’re struggling with symptoms of depression, mental health therapy programs in Colorado can help. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment can help you finally find relief and get back to living a life you truly enjoy.
What is Depression?
Depression is more than feeling down or mildly sad – it is a persistent, pervasive alteration of mood and emotions that lasts for two weeks or longer. Some individuals may experience brief, major depressive episodes that persist for several weeks before gradually resolving. Other sufferers deal with ongoing – though comparatively mild – symptoms of depression for months and even years.
Depressive disorder changes how you function on a day-to-day basis. The disorder is dominant, frequently changing self-perception and leading to feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, guilt, and shame. These feelings often heighten the sadness and disinterest that characterize the depressive disorder. If left untreated, negative emotions can lead to a continual downward spiral, leading many sufferers to turn to substance abuse in an attempt to mitigate their symptoms.
What Causes Depression?
Historically, psychologists believed depression was due to a brain chemical imbalance. However, researchers now know that the disorder is far more complicated than previously thought. Psychologists now understand that several factors contribute to the development of signs of depression. Determinants of the condition include medication usage, genetic predisposition, and traumatic life events. Persistent stress and mood regulation abnormalities also play a role.
Indeed, brain chemical imbalance positively contributes to the development of symptoms of depression. Today, however, researchers are finding that sufferers may experience identical signs of the disorder, but the underlying causes of the condition are vastly different. Because underlying causes determine which treatments will be most effective, discovering the root causes of the disorder is critical.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
Beyond feelings of intense sadness, depression carries many debilitating symptoms. These feelings often drive sufferers into seclusion and despair. To receive a medical diagnosis of depression, you must experience a depressive episode lasting longer than two weeks. The following symptoms characterize episodes:
- Loss of interest in historically pleasurable activities
- Dramatically increased sleeping or difficulty sleeping
- Persistent fatigue and loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Thoughts of harming oneself
- Appetite changes and associated weight loss or gain
How Can You Get Help for Depression?
Finding treatment for depression begins by contacting a qualified medical practitioner to provide you with a full evaluation and diagnosis. Once you are diagnosed with the disorder, mental health counseling from a compassionate and knowledgeable treatment center can help you find relief. Programs that can help you overcome depression symptoms and learn valuable coping techniques include:
Through one-on-one counseling and group meetings, you’ll acquire the tools and coping mechanisms necessary to break free from the effects of depression. You’ll address the root cause of your condition, learn to understand your symptoms and master healthy coping mechanisms.
Break Free From Depression
If you or a loved one suffer from signs of depression, now is the time to heal and break free. At AspenRidge Fort Collins, our caring and compassionate team is here to provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to finally take back control of your life. Don’t let depression steal another minute of your happiness. Contact our team at 866.957.6941 to start your healing journey today.