Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in the United States. In any given year, about 6.7% of the population experiences a major depressive episode. Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder that is marked by a depressed mood, loss of interest in things that previously interested the person (including sex), and low self-esteem.
Understanding Depression
A person experiencing depression often feels perpetually sad or down and has very little energy to handle life’s demands. They may feel exhausted simply getting out of bed. Alternatively, they may feel agitated or irritable all the time. This is especially true in children and adolescents who are experiencing depression. In addition, people who experience depression seem to ruminate and become overwhelmed with feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, irrational guilt, and a poor image of self. They also tend to have difficulty with concentration and memory. A person with major depression often withdraws from social activities and may experience intense thoughts about death or suicide.
A person with depression may also experience periods of insomnia or hypersomnia. They may have difficulty eating or may experience either a weight gain or weight loss. They may also experience an increase in physical pain while they are depressed. In addition, a person with depression may experience significant impairment in their ability to function in social, occupational, or school environments.
Types of Depression Treatment
Left untreated, depression can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Fortunately, treatment can be very effective in overcoming depression. Some of the depression treatment methods that tend to help with depression include:
Cognitive Treatment
When a person is depressed, their thoughts tend to become negative and self-defeating. Learning to manage these negative thoughts is an important aspect of depression treatment.
Behavioral Treatment
When someone is depressed they tend to isolate and withdraw. They frequently pull away from their support network and quit doing activities that typically bring them joy. Learning to change these behaviors and re-engage in life is often a critical component of depression treatment.
Psycho-Education
The more an individual learns about depression and understands the triggers and causes of depression, the more effective they tend to be at reducing depression.
Medication Management
There are a number of medications that can be very effective in alleviating depression. The type of medications and the speed at which they work often vary based on an individual’s specific physiology and the severity of their depression. Overall, when used in conjunction with psychotherapy, medications can be very useful in dealing with depression.
Anger Management
Unresolved or suppressed anger can become depression. When these anger issues are resolved, depression tends to decrease.
Trauma Resolution
Depression can result from past traumas. When these traumas are resolved, the depression tends to diminish.
Coping Skills Training
The more skills a person has to deal with the challenges of life, the less depression they tend to experience.
Conflict Resolution Training
Unresolved conflicts can lead to depression. Learning how to resolve conflicts effectively can therefore be critical in reducing depression in the future.
Stress Management Training
Everyone experiences stress. Sometimes, however, the stress becomes overwhelming and begins to lead to depression. Learning to cope with stress is therefore a valuable tool to decrease depression.
Communication Skills Training
Effective communication decreases conflict, improves relationships, and generally has a positive impact on an individual’s sense of well-being.
Grief Therapy
Unresolved grief can lead to depression. The more a person is free from past losses, the more they are able to live more completely in the moment.
Family of Origin Therapy
Unresolved issues within an individual’s family of origin can lead to guilt, depression, shame, and anxiety. Resolving these issues often has a positive significant impact on depression.
New Dimensions Can Help!
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms or problems, New Dimensions can help. Our team of experienced therapists and psychiatrists can help you overcome these challenges and help you develop the skills you need to thrive. To schedule a complementary assessment or to find out more about our programs, contact us at 1-800-685-9796.
Our affiliate, MHThrive, provides Individual Therapy, Couples and Marriage Counseling, and Family Therapy at our locations in Katy, The Woodlands, and the Clear Lake area of Houston, Texas. We also provide telehealth therapy for anyone who resides within the State of Texas. To schedule an appointment with one of the MHThrive therapists, contact us at 713-477-0333 or visit www.mhthrive.com to learn more.