What is Depression?
Depression is a pervasive mood disorder that goes beyond temporary feelings of sadness. Persistent depression that significantly affects your behaviors, responses, and outlook on life may indicate clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder.
Symptoms of Depression Include:
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Lack of motivation
- Frequent overthinking
- Social withdrawal
- Feelings of emptiness and numbness
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased sensitivity
- Irritability
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Persistent negative emotions such as self-loathing, despair, extreme sadness, hopelessness, and guilt
- In severe cases, depression can lead to suicidal ideation, and tragically, it contributes to numerous suicides annually. However, with appropriate treatment including counseling and other mental health interventions, depression can be managed and overcome.
What Causes Depression?
Depression does not have a single cause. It often emerges from a combination of factors such as:
- Bereavement or the death of a loved one
- Serious illness
- Financial stress
- Unemployment
- Relationship difficulties
- Traumatic events
- Significant life changes like pregnancy, childbirth, or moving homes
- While these factors alone do not cause depression, they can trigger the condition in individuals, particularly those with a family history of mental health disorders. Often, depression is linked to an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are crucial for mood regulation.
Treatment Options for Depression
- Effective treatment for depression typically involves addressing both the psychological and biological aspects.
- Interpersonal Psychotherapy focuses on past and present stressors that might contribute to depression.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps patients identify and challenge negative thought patterns to improve coping mechanisms.
- We offers a compassionate, non-judgmental space for patients to explore the roots of their depression. When necessary, treatments may be supplemented with medications like antidepressants or Spravato® esketamine nasal spray, particularly if other therapies have not been effective.
For support and treatment options, contact Agnescare Service Solutions, Inc to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards recovery from depression.