Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a depressed (sad) feeling that is severe or ongoing. People develop depression for numerous reasons, but the condition can sometimes turn life-threatening when not addressed. About one in four people struggle with a mental health disorder, and depression is one of the most common.

What are the symptoms of depression?

The symptoms of depression vary from person to person. They include:

• Extreme sadness
• Ongoing sad feelings
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Problems concentrating
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Thoughts of suicide
• Substance misuse
• Anxiety
• Social isolation
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Physical aches and pains

Situational depression might go away on its own over time. Receiving effective treatment is vital to prevent worsening symptoms or crippling complications. 

What may increase the risk of depression?

The following factors may boost your risk of depression:

• Divorce or breakup
• Stress
• Family history of a mental health disorder
• Job loss
• Death in your family
• Lack of a strong social support network
• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• Childhood neglect
• Substance misuse
• Brain chemical changes
• Anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Autism
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Seasonal depression appears in some people during winter months when the weather is cold and the days are shorter.

How does my specialist diagnose depression?

Diagnosing depression involves a comprehensive diagnostic consultation. Your provider reviews your medical history and asks questions about your emotions, moods, thoughts, behavior patterns, medications, and lifestyle habits to determine if you have any mental health challenges, such as depression. 

How is depression treated?

Treating depression typically involves making lifestyle changes, taking medications, undergoing therapy, or combining mental health treatments. 

Examples of therapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and other therapies that help you regain control of your thoughts and emotions.

You might participate in therapy once a week, twice weekly, or as needed. You may visit with your provider individually or as a couple or family. LaSante Health Center also offers medication prescriptions.

Things you can do at home to minimize depression include reducing stress, getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, spending time outdoors, eating nutritious foods, and maintaining a strong social support network. It’s also important to avoid alcohol and drugs.

Schedule an in-person or virtual depression evaluation with the team at LaSante Health Center by phone or request one online today.