What is depression?
Depression, also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is more than just sadness.
This serious mental health condition causes unyielding feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that hinder day-to-day functioning.
Without treatment, depression can negatively affect major areas of your life, including:
Work
Depression may lead to a lack of focus or motivation at work. This may cause you to lose your job or get passed up for a promotion. You may also take more sick days during depressive episodes.
Relationships
Depression can have a devastating effect on families and relationships. You may withdraw from loved ones and experience a decreased libido (sex drive). This can lead to conflict, disharmony, and resentment in relationships as well as difficulty maintaining friendships.
How do I know if I have depression?
Depression can affect people differently. People with depression experience changes in how they think, feel, and behave. Common signs and symptoms of depression include:
- Loss of interest in pleasurable activities, including sex
- Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Irritability and restlessness
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Insomnia or oversleeping
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
You may also experience physical symptoms, like unexplained body aches, headaches, and digestive problems.
What causes depression?
The exact cause of depression varies from person to person and may be difficult to determine. Factors that may contribute to depression include:
- Family history of depression, bipolar disorder, alcohol abuse, or suicide
- Personal history of mental illness
- Changes in brain chemistry
- Lifestyle factors like poor exercise, diet, and sleep habits
- Substance use
- Chronic pain or illness
- Hormonal changes, including premenstrual or postpartum
- Traumatic or stressful events
Cognitive factors, like self-criticism, low self-esteem, and negative thoughts can also lead to depression.
How is depression treated?
First, the providers at Dr. Messina & Associates perform a complete psychological evaluation. If you or your child has depression, they create a personalized treatment plan.
The most effective treatments for depression include medication, psychotherapy, or both. Severe depression that involves thoughts of suicide may require hospitalization or an in-patient or outpatient treatment program.
If you’re having suicidal thoughts or urges, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
The providers at Dr. Messina & Associates use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat depression in adults, adolescents, and children. CBT helps you change your thoughts and behaviors so you can live a healthier, happier, and more productive life.
Our Psychiatrists treat depression through medication management.
If you or your child suffers from depression, call the office of Dr. Messina & Associates or book an appointment online today.
Offering exceptional care for anxiety and depression.
Call us to book your appointment today.
