Depression
Depression is a common and serious mental health disorder often characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in formerly enjoyed activities. Depression can affect how a person thinks, feels, and manages their daily activities.
Depression can vary in severity and duration, and it can be triggered by various factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, trauma, and life events. Depression can significantly impair various aspects of life, including relationships, work or academic performance, physical health, and overall quality of life. It is also associated with an increased risk of substance abuse and suicide. It's important to seek professional help such as Aptiva Health. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, be aware that it is a treatable condition.
Symptoms may include:
Emotional Symptoms: Persistent sadness, hopelessness, feelings of worthlessness, guilt, irritability, or feeling empty, and in extreme cases thoughts of death or suicide.
Cognitive Symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
Physical Symptoms: Fatigue, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping), aches and pains, and reduced energy.
Behavioral Symptoms: Withdrawal from social activities, decreased performance at work or school, and neglect of responsibilities or personal care.
Here at Aptiva Health Mental Wellness, our psychologists and psychiatric nurse practitioner diagnose depression based on a clinical evaluation, which includes a detailed interview, patient history, tests, and standardized questionnaires. We differentiate between these the types of depression listed here with summary descriptions:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Characterized by severe symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic form of depression with less severe symptoms that last for at least two years.
Bipolar Disorder: Includes episodes of depression alternating with periods of mania.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression that occurs at certain times of the year, usually in winter.
Postpartum Depression: Occurs in some women after childbirth.
Premenstrual Disorder:
Depressive Disorder due to a medical condition:
Substance/medication-induced depressive disorder:
Causes and Risk Factors:
Psychological Factors: Negative, depressive thinking patterns, low self-esteem, trauma, and stress.
Biological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters), genetic predisposition, hormonal changes.
Environmental Factors: Chronic stress, lack of support, major life changes, and social isolation.
Treatment at Aptiva Health involves:
Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and other complementary therapies.
Medication: Antidepressants, antianxiety medications, sleep medications, and others as indicated.
Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques.
Support Systems: Developing and/or maintaining social connections, and family support.
Prevention and Management:
Early Intervention: Recognizing and addressing symptoms early can prevent worsening.
Ongoing Management: Continued treatment and lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms and prevent relapse.
Education: Understanding and recognizing depression can help individuals seek help and reduce stigma.
