Depression is one of the three most common mental health diagnoses in the United States. It affects nearly 20 million people a year. The symptoms of depression are often not recognized or simply misunderstood. The impact of depression on a person’s life is great, with ripple effects felt by families and loved ones as well. Everyone deserves to live the best life they can without the crippling weight of depression. Depression treatment is available, and the symptoms and effects of this mental health condition can be successfully addressed.
To learn how to begin healing from depression, reach out to Apex Recovery in Nashville, TN. Find out about our mental health treatment programs and get answers to your questions about depression symptoms, effective evidence-based treatments, and how to get the help you need. Our number is 615.703.4639, or you can complete our online form to connect with us.
A Diagnosis of Depression
Depression is not something that always presents the same way for everyone. Even people with similar diagnoses may exhibit some of the signs of depression differently. It is important for your mental health therapist to properly understand what kind of depression you have. Below are some of the most common.
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Postpartum depression (PPD)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Atypical depression
Depression is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Even today, with the knowledge that experts have about it, people who suffer from depression are still often told that it’s all in their heads and to just change their attitude. These perspectives are dangerous as they reinforce stigma and become barriers to people seeking care.
The good news is that all forms of depression are treatable. If you have experienced two weeks or more of depression symptoms, you can be diagnosed by a doctor. Symptoms of depression, regardless of what kind, do not have to dominate your life. To begin to understand if you suffer from depression, familiarize yourself with the most common depression symptoms.
5 Signs of Depression
The symptoms of depression can be psychological and behavioral, but also physical. Five significant psychological signs of depression are:
- Relentless, continuous low mood and feelings of sadness not necessarily related to circumstances
- Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Lack of pleasure or enjoyment of life, including loss of interest in things that once gave you joy and a feeling of satisfaction that now seems inaccessible
- Loss of perspective, including an inability to focus, make decisions, or think about the future
- Low self-esteem, often exacerbated by feelings of guilt and despair
The above signs are often accompanied by aches and pains, loss of energy and appetite, changes to sleep patterns (too much sleep or insomnia), reduced sex drive, and other physical symptoms.
Depression can be considered mild, moderate, or severe. The more severe the depression, the more difficult it is to navigate life’s challenges so that small setbacks seem like disasters. Whether your symptoms of depression are mild or severe, seek treatment. You can feel better with the proper support and guidance on the path to a happier future.
Depression Treatment at Apex Recovery
At Apex Recovery, we treat depression using evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Whole-person care such as acupuncture, hypnosis, massage, and meditation has highly beneficial results in treating depression as well.
Our goal is your wellness. Let us help lift the weight of depression from you so you can re-engage with life feeling whole and strong. To connect with one of our caring staff, simply fill out our online form or pick up the phone and dial 615.703.4639.