Depression

Major depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting more than 8% (21 million) of American adults each year. 15% of youth (3.7 million) ages 12-17 are affected by major depression.

Symptoms of Depression

• Feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, or guilty

• Not being able to find joy or pleasure in things you used to

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Eating more or less than usual

• Having difficulty focusing or thinking clearly

• Thoughts of hurting yourself

What are the different types of depression?

There are many different types of depression. Some of the most common are:

Major Depressive Disorder

Major Depressive Disorder is a mood disorder in which one experiences many of the symptoms listed above for at least a two-week period of time.

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) is a pervasive type of depression that is experienced most days over the course of at least two years. Symptoms are typically less severe than those associated with Major Depressive Disorder.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder is a condition in which one experiences periods of time in which their mood is highly elevated (mania or hypomania). Sometimes, mania can be experienced to such an intensity that hospitalization is required. Many people that live with Bipolar Disorder often experience episodes of major depression

How Depression is Treated

Medication

A psychiatrist or other physician can prescribe a medication to help manage the symptoms of depression, such as an antidepressant. Medications such as these change certain chemicals in your brain that may be associated with depression.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can help you understand more about the factors that may be contributing to feeling depressed and illuminate possible changes you can make to feel better. Working with a therapist can provide support as you navigate the sometimes-overwhelming challenges that come with depression and help you focus on ways to better cope with these experiences.

Feeling Stuck?

There are times when we all feel stuck in our lives. We may know our options, but nothing feels right. Maybe some options do not even feel like they are possible. Maybe we know the way forward, but just are not able to get there. Or maybe we are just not completely sure what our options are. Feeling stuck can feel like being an observer of your life instead of an active participant. It can feel like repeating the same patterns over and over again and getting the same result. It can feel frustrating, demoralizing, and can cause you to lose confidence in yourself. Those feelings can bleed over into other areas of your life, too. Maybe you feel stuck in your career or in a relationship or just in the same hum-drum routines that you have had for a while. Working with a therapist can help you understand more about what is contributing to your feelings re: being stuck and help you find alternative ways of looking at situations and assist you in obtaining skills so that you find some relief.