Frank’s smile never disappointed. He normally lit the place with his positive energy and bounce. Frank appeared to have a good day every day.
But slowly the smile began to wane and a persistent sense of irritability and anger replaced it. Frank withdrew from his friends and no longer was the life of the party. And everyone wondered, “What happened to Frank?”
The reason for Frank’s behavioral changes was depression, one of the most common mental illnesses in the United States. Though depression can affect anyone, it also highly treatable; it can be addressed under the guidance of a licensed mental health professional.
For many people, seeking therapy for their depression symptoms can offer a ray of light and hope. Thriveworks is here to help. If you’d like to discuss your concerns about depression, consider making an appointment today at Thriveworks in Arnold, MO.
Causes and Forms of Depression
Depression can be caused by a number of different contributing factors. For some people, a traumatic event, such as the death of a loved one or being the victim of a crime, can trigger a depressive disorder. Some personality traits, whether genetic or defined by life experience, can be causes as well. Family history, alcohol and drug use, or an illness all can contribute to symptoms of depression.
Further, several different forms of depression exist, each presenting with its own symptoms, though some can overlap. The most common form is known as major depressive disorder, whose primary symptoms are overpowering sadness or loss of interest in life’s pleasures.
Persistent depressive disorder is characterized by sadness for a long period of time. Though symptoms might not be as acute as with major depressive disorder, they could last for more than two years.
Those diagnosed with an adjustment disorder with a depressed mood may have faced a stressful event within the past three months. Common symptoms include a lack of interest in life’s pleasures, hopelessness, and overwhelming sadness.
Not sure of the reasons for your depression? Reach out to us at Thriveworks in Arnold, MO to meet with a mental health professional who can help you uncover underlying issues and create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Can I Benefit From Depression Therapy?
Fortunately, depression is treatable. Mental health professionals are trained to diagnose and treat depressive disorders and many clients find discussing their issues with one to be a positive and worthwhile experience.
Depression therapy requires an individual approach and there are a variety of treatments that can be used to address symptoms. Various forms of talk therapy are common and can help people understand the roots of their symptoms. By using what’s known as cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, a therapist can help people address thoughts and beliefs that may be contributing to worsening symptoms.
Other forms of therapy may teach relaxation techniques or teach people how to handle stressful triggers. There’s also a method known as light therapy, which can be helpful to regulate mood, especially for those who experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Treatment for depression is multi-faceted and your situation may call for medication to be used in concert with talk therapy. Your mental health professional will determine that with you, personalizing a plan that considers your medical history, symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals.
For those who seek counseling, honesty is paramount. A successful outcome requires you to be open about your symptoms and feelings. For clients who commit to the process, many describe it as an empowering and restorative experience. If you’re ready to begin, consider making an appointment for depression counseling at Thriveworks in Arnold, MO.
Meet With a Therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in Arnold, MO
If you are facing persistent sadness, overwhelming guilt, or constant fatigue, you could be suffering from symptoms of depression. But these feelings don’t have to consume your life. Depression can be addressed, and the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it can be.
At Thriveworks, we want to make treatment as accessible and as friendly as possible. We start by giving you options. Appointments are available weekdays, nights, and weekends to accommodate your schedule. For new clients, we offer the opportunity to see a licensed counselor or therapist within 24-48 hours of reaching out — and sometimes even on the same day! If you’re unable, or uncomfortable, making an in-person appointment, Thriveworks offers online therapy sessions that provide the same level of care.
Thriveworks accepts many major insurance plans and extends a host of additional benefits: a flexible cancellation policy, life-coaching, counselor-moderated community discussion boards, and more.
If you’re facing symptoms of depression, counseling can help. Call or click today for an appointment at Thriveworks in Arnold, MO.
