Depression

WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood | Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism | Irritability | Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness | Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities | Decreased energy or fatigue | Moving or talking more slowly | Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still | Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions | Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping | Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts | Aches or pains and headaches

An estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. This number represented 7.1% of all U.S. adults. – NIMH.gov

Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.
Not everyone who is depressed experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few symptoms while others may experience many. The severity and frequency of symptoms and how long they last will vary depending on the individual and his or her particular illness. Symptoms may also vary depending on the stage of the illness.
Depression, even the most severe cases, can be treated. The earlier that treatment can begin, the more effective it is. Depression is usually treated with medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.

In 2017, an estimated 65% received combined care from a mental health professional (counselor) and medication treatment. – NIMH.gov

FOUR THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT DEPRESSION

1. Depression is a real illness.
2. Depression affects people in different ways.
3. Depression is treatable.
4. If you have depression, you are not alone. For immediate, anonymous assistance 24/7, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-273-8255.

TYPES OF DEPRESSION

Major Depressive Disorder
Severe symptoms that interfere with the ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy life. An episode can occur only once in a person’s lifetime, but more often, a person has several episodes.

Persistent Depressive Disorder
A depressed mood that lasts for at least 2 years. A person diagnosed with persistent depressive disorder may have episodes of major depression along with periods of less severe symptoms, but symptoms must last for 2 years.

Post-Partum Depressive Disorder
This depression is much more serious than the “baby blues”. Many women experience low mood after giving birth. Hormonal and physical changes and the new responsibility of caring for a newborn can be overwhelming. It is estimated that 10 to 15 percent of women experience postpartum depression after giving birth.

Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is different from depression. Someone with bipolar disorder experiences episodes of extreme low moods (depression) and also experiences extreme high moods (called “mania”). Bipolar disorder used to be called manic-depressive disorder.

SUICIDE

If you know someone who took his/her own life (or maybe you have contemplated the thought yourself), it is important to remember that there is help out there. The counselors at Acadia Counseling are here to provide a pathway out of that dark place, a shoulder to cry on, and an ear to hear the things you have been hiding away from everyone else. Let us help you overcome the feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and despair that keeps you trapped.

Trained persons are available to speak with you anytime of the day or night at 1-800-273-8255.
Local assistance is also available. Look up your local suicide & crisis prevention hotline using this link.  
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At Acadia Counseling, we are prepared to help guide you through assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and referral for depressive disorders. Call (502) 825-1375 or click here to schedule an appointment.