Some days, it might feel like you have a storm cloud hanging over your head. Days like this can be challenging but manageable with the knowledge that everyone feels sad sometimes. With some kind words from your loved ones and a moment of peace, you can break up these clouds and feel better about yourself.
For those dealing with depressive disorders, finding a clear sky is not so simple. Someone with depression might feel sad or empty most of the time, even if they’re doing something they enjoy or spending time with friends.
Millions of people struggle with depression each year in the United States alone. It’s a common mood disorder that can keep you from living your best life. People living with depression can feel hopeless, but we want you to know that support is available. Therapists and counselors are experts in treating depression and managing its symptoms.
We want you to know that support is available for anyone living with depression. Working with a mental health professional can help you manage your depression and live a happier life. If you want to work with a mental health professional, consider calling our office at Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI today. One of our team members can help you set up your first appointment today.
Depression: Symptoms and Types of Depression
Depression is more than one mental health issue — there are many types of depression that present themselves with various symptoms. Mental health professionals can diagnose the many forms of depression and create a customized treatment plan to deal with each.
Some of the most common types of depression include:
- Postpartum depression: This form of depression is characterized by feeling empty, irritable, and sad after a pregnancy. Hormonal changes after birth can cause postpartum depression.
- Major Depressive Disorder: When someone talks about “clinical depression,” this is most commonly what’s being discussed. Major depressive disorder can cause persistent feelings of sadness and emptiness for an extended period of time. This disorder can make everyday tasks much more difficult.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): SAD is a form of depression brought on by shorter days in the fall and winter and a lack of sunlight.
Understanding the disorder you’re dealing with allows your therapist or counselor to develop a treatment plan that effectively addresses your symptoms and provides you with the appropriate coping mechanisms.
If you suspect that you might be dealing with depression, some symptoms that commonly indicate its presence include:
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Fatigue
- Changes in sleeping and eating habits
- Anger or irritability
- Substance abuse
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering information
- Loss of interest in hobbies and seeing other people
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
If you’ve been dealing with any of the above symptoms, consider talking with a mental health professional from Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI. Working with a counselor, therapist, or psychiatrist can help you manage your depression and live your best life.
How Can Therapy or Counseling Help With Depressive Disorders?
The first step in any mental health treatment plan is a diagnosis. Your provider will work with you to understand your symptoms and how they present in your life. Once a diagnosis is reached, your therapist or counselor will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that could involve therapy, medication, or a mix of multiple treatment modalities.
There are many types of talk therapy that can help with depression. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you look at how your patterns of thinking negatively affect your emotional state, and how to then reframe those patterns to have a more grounded and positive mindset.
Medication is another crucial part of some depression treatment plans. Antidepressant medication can help reduce the symptoms of depression and make it easier to manage in combination with talk therapy, lifestyle changes, and stress-management techniques. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications for their clients or provide medication management services for clients working with other mental health professionals.
Do you want to work with a mental health professional to manage your depression? Consider calling our office today at Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI.
Making an Appointment With a Thriveworks Counselor in Appleton, WI
Are you struggling with depression and want to work toward a better state of mind? Call our office today at Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI, to get started.
We offer online therapy or counseling options via phone or video call. This is an excellent option for anyone who has trouble fitting therapy into their schedule or attending an in-person appointment. We also offer evening and weekend sessions alongside a flexible cancellation policy.
Our mental health professionals can help you manage your depression and achieve your goals. Call our office today at Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI, to get started. We look forward to helping you thrive.
