If you’ve lost interest in activities that previously brought you joy, you’re plagued by thoughts of self-harm, or you have a persistent sad feeling that you can’t shake, you may be suffering from depression. This is a common mood disorder and it is estimated that at least 17 million adults in America experience a depressive episode yearly.
Feeling down from time to time is a completely normal part of life. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms over a long period of time and it’s getting in the way of your relationships and interfering with your life, it may be time to seek out help.
Despite how common depression is, it’s not always addressed right away. With the stresses of modern life, mental wellbeing can sometimes take a back seat. If you’re depressed and dealing with feelings of low self-worth, it’s easy to feel like something is wrong with you or that you’ll never get better. However, you’re not alone and it’s important to know that professional counseling services are available to help get you back on track.
Many people find that asking for help isn’t easy, especially when it comes to issues with mental health. But if you’re struggling with a depressive disorder, there’s no shame in reaching out for support. The mental health experts at Thriveworks Counseling in Baton Rouge, LA are here to guide you on your healing journey.
What are Common Depression Symptoms?
Depression is more than just a mood disorder. It has the potential to impact everything in your life, from your relationships and career to your ability to enjoy simple activities. You don’t need to be suicidal or unable to get out of bed to benefit from professional depression counseling. If you’ve been going through a period of time with feelings of low self-esteem or low energy, speaking to a therapist can provide you with the tools you need to overcome depression and get the most out of life.
Depression is characterized by a feeling of sadness and low mood that can manifest itself in many physical and behavioral changes. Symptoms can be experienced steadily over a long period of time or in intense episodes.
These are just a few of the most common forms of depression symptoms:
- Persistent low mood
- Long term fatigue
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Changes in eating patterns
- Heightened irritability
- Substance abuse
- Increased anxiety
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Can I Benefit From Depression Therapy?
It’s common to feel hopeless if you’re suffering from depression. However, depression is a highly treatable disorder and countless individuals have responded positively to treatment and improved their quality of life.
Treatment for depression can take many forms as no two individuals are exactly alike. Depression can be caused or influenced by many different things, including distressing life events, issues with brain chemistry, or even genetic predisposition. In many cases, multiple factors can be at play. This calls for a comprehensive approach that may include talk therapy, medication, or both.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy and is one of the most common tools therapists use when treating depression. By incorporating CBT, a therapist can help to expose negative thinking patterns that may be causing or contributing to depressive disorders. While the “power of positive thinking” may seem cliche, there are real benefits to be gained. Therapists work with clients to identify harmful thinking patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and make changes to lessen symptoms.
If you’re feeling depressed and don’t know where to turn, the licensed counselors at Thriveworks Counseling in Baton Rouge are here to help you take your life back.
Starting Therapy for Depression With Thriveworks in Baton Rouge, LA
At Thriveworks Counseling in Baton Rouge, LA we make scheduling as easy as possible. With one click or call, new clients can book an appointment in as little as 24 hours of reaching out. We also offer evening and weekend sessions to make scheduling an appointment a breeze.
Online therapy is also an increasingly popular option. It can be difficult to work therapy sessions into your schedule or you may find the idea of visiting a counseling center for the first time intimidating. These are both situations where online therapy is an ideal option. You can take your appointment by video chat or phone call from the comfort of your home.
As soon as you enroll with Thriveworks Counseling, you gain access to a wide variety of exclusive benefits. Some of these include:
- Advice via phone or email in between appointments
- Community discussion boards
- Exclusive video content
- 24-hour response from a life coach
- App-based solutions for scheduling and billing
We also take many forms of insurance. If you’re tired of depression interfering with your life, get in touch with the mental health professionals at Thriveworks Counseling in Baton Rouge, LA to make an appointment.
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