Depression is a mood disorder that causes relentless feelings of despair, sadness, and irritability. Sometimes called major depressive disorder (MDD), depression can cause individuals to lose interest in daily activities or doing things that once brought them joy. Depression can affect anyone at any age. In fact, studies have shown that 20% of Americans experience a severe depressive episode each year. Our team understands that seeking help for depression can be daunting. Serenity Mental Health Centers is here to help patients feel empowered to understand their diagnosis, find a treatment that is right for them, and support them during all the moments in between.
There are types of depression, such as postpartum depression, clinical depression, and treatment-resistant depression. One of the first steps in treating depression is identifying which type of depression you may be experiencing. Talk therapy and medication are among the most common treatments for depression and are effective for some people. Our team recognizes that each patient is unique, and sometimes, what works for one patient may not work for another. In addition to conventional depression treatments, we also offer innovative alternatives, such as TMS therapy and ketamine IV therapy. Our team will listen to the feelings and concerns each patient expresses to find a treatment for depression that addresses their specific needs without compromising any of their wellness goals.
Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects mood, thoughts, and daily functioning. It can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
Common symptoms of depression include:
Persistent sadness
Loss of interest
Changes in appetite or weight
Sleep disturbances (such as insomnia or excessive sleeping)
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Suicidal thoughts
Potential causes of depression include:
Genetics
Brain chemistry
Hormonal changes
Chronic stress or trauma
Medical conditions
Depression can arise from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Several risk factors can contribute to the development of depression, including:
Stressful life events:
Major changes such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, job loss, or financial struggles
Chronic illness or pain:
Ongoing health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or chronic pain that affect mental well-being
Hormonal changes:
Imbalances due to pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or thyroid disorders
Brain chemistry imbalances:
Disruptions in neurotransmitter levels that affect mood regulation
History of trauma or abuse:
Previous experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
Substance abuse:
Alcohol or drug use that can interfere with brain function and exacerbate symptoms
History of trauma or abuse:
Previous experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
Lack of social support:
Isolation or poor relationships that hinder emotional well-being
Poor sleep habits:
Insufficient or disrupted sleep patterns that affect mental health
Genetic predisposition:
A family history of depression or other mental health disorders
Sedentary lifestyle:
Limited physical activity that negatively impacts mental and emotional health
Feeling sad from time to time is a common aspect of the human condition. However, depression goes beyond mere sporadic sadness. It involves persistent or extensive sadness that may be joined by several other symptoms, such as a diminished interest in activities once enjoyed, feelings of hopelessness, diminished self-esteem, excessive guilt, reduced energy levels, trouble concentrating, changes in appetite, altered sleep patterns, physical pains like headaches and body aches, and potentially, suicidal thoughts.
Yes, children can indeed get depression. While it’s often perceived as a condition that primarily affects adults, depression does not discriminate by age and can impact children as well. In children, the signs of depression might differ from those in adults and can include irritability, changes in eating and sleeping habits, persistent sadness, withdrawal from friends and activities they once enjoyed, and a decrease in energy. It’s important for parents, caregivers, and educators to recognize these symptoms and seek appropriate medical guidance to address them.
For anyone suffering from depression or depression symptoms, you are not alone. Emotions caused by depression can be overwhelming and frightening at times. Our team aims to empower our patients with knowledge about their condition, so that we can find the right treatment that works for their unique needs. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow by contacting Serenity Mental Health Centers today.
Depression comes in many forms , including major depressive disorder
We’ve previously discussed how pregnancy affects your mental health .
