Major depressive disorder is one of the most common illnesses in the world. Categorized by long-term sadness and disinterest of varying intensity, depression impacts everything from the way we eat, play, and think to the way we handle inconveniences, deal with grief, and evaluate our self-worth.
But major depressive disorder is only one form of depression. Some of the most common depressive disorders include:
- Postpartum depression (PPD), where severe depression occurs in the weeks or months following childbirth.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which can cause seasonal depression and bouts of weight gain, sadness, and exhaustion during the winter months.
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD), a depressive disorder lasting for at least two years.
- Bipolar depression, which includes intense mood swings from elevated highs to extreme lows.
Regardless of the specific type of depression, depressive disorders often cause feelings of intense helplessness and hopelessness that make navigating day-to-day life difficult. Depression is a serious illness but it can be managed with proper care and guidance.
The team at Thriveworks Counseling in Amarillo, TX is trained to treat depressive disorders with the thoughtfulness they require. If you are feeling depressed, please contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Common Symptoms of Depressive Disorders
Depression is a mood disorder that can have a strong impact on your emotional state. Everyone experiences moments of sadness but what separates depression from general mood fluctuations is the intensity and frequency of these sad feelings over a period of time.
The precise symptoms of depression can vary based on the form of depression you have. Nevertheless, there are common depression symptoms to be aware of, including:
- Disinterest or lack of pleasure in activities you once enjoyed
- Sluggishness
- Hypersomnia or insomnia
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Feelings of loneliness, sadness, or emptiness
- Feelings of anxiousness or anger
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Sudden shifts in mood
- Persistent pessimism
- Physical symptoms such as headaches or dizziness
You may be experiencing some form of depression if you have experienced at least several of these symptoms on a daily or frequent basis for two or more weeks. With seasonal affective disorder (SAD), you may experience these or other symptoms solely during the cold winter or autumn months.
Depression and mood disorders can be caused by your environment, biology, or childhood experiences. But depressive disorders can also be caused by a combination of the three or by other factors, such as substance abuse or major life events.
When you’re ready to take charge of your mental health, call one of our licensed professionals at Thriveworks in Amarillo, TX to set up an appointment. Together, we can determine the cause of your depression and get you on a path to a happier, healthier future.
What Can Depression Therapy Do for Me?
Depression does not have to consume you. Your provider will gauge the intensity of your symptoms and the nuances of your situation to create the appropriate treatment plan to provide relief.
Treatment may require a multifaceted approach. For example, your counselor or therapist may recommend treatments such as psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help manage your depression. Treatment may also consist of counseling for past traumas or substance abuse, medication for genetic or hormonal imbalances, or a combination of counseling and medication to treat multiple challenges.
With the help of your therapist or counselor, you’ll work toward reducing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. In addition to medication and therapy, your provider may encourage you to become active, engage in creative activities, and journal your thoughts. These activities have long-term emotional benefits and can be done outside of the office.
No matter the treatment plan, you can expect individualized, long-term care that focuses on your symptoms and needs. To begin your wellness plan, please reach out to set up an appointment with us at Thriveworks in Amarillo, TX.
Meet With a Therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in Amarillo, TX
A professional therapist or counselor can offer you evidence-based coping strategies to help you combat your depressive disorder. Together, you can create an action plan that promotes growth and wellness for years to come.
We would love to work with you at Thriveworks Counseling in Amarillo, TX. Our new clients can often schedule an appointment to be seen within 24 to 48 hours. We offer a flexible cancellation policy and access to your provider between sessions via phone and email.
Our offices are open early and close late. You have the option to schedule online counseling through video or by phone and we offer evening and weekend sessions to accommodate your schedule.
Getting your life back on track takes time but at Thriveworks in Amarillo, TX, we are here to help you take the first step. Call us when you’re ready; we’re here for you.
