Gina’s always thought of herself as a positive person. She tends to think on the bright side, and does her best to lift up those around her (and herself) when she needs to. And even though there have been times in her life where she’s lost her way, Gina feels confident that she knows who she is. But lately, she’s been wondering why she doesn’t feel as sunny as she once did.
Over the past several months, she’s noticed that she’s losing interest in her hobbies, friendships, and even her close relationship with her partner. Her mood is difficult to track, but often she feels dejected and apathetic. After doing some thinking, Gina’s wondering if she’s depressed, and if so, should she talk to a mental health professional?
If you’re in Gina’s shoes, maybe you’re stuck wondering why feelings of sadness and hopelessness are overtaking your daily life. But you don’t need to face these issues by yourself. At Thriveworks in Beaumont, TX we can offer you professional assistance with treating depression. With help from our knowledgeable staff of providers, freedom and relief from your depression can become a possibility.
Am I Depressed? What Does Depression Feel Like?
Depression is an emotional disorder that manifests differently for everyone, so there’s no universal sign that someone is depressed. With that in mind, there are common indications that might serve as warnings that someone is struggling with a form of depression, including:
- Feeling distant from loved ones and friends
- Decreased work performance
- Feeling chronically fatigued
- Overeating or avoiding eating
- Lack of self-care (i.e. personal hygiene or a clean living environment)
- You’ve been abusing drugs and alcohol to cope with emotional pain
- A noted lack of interest in sex, hobbies, or relationships
Keep in mind it’s not possible to self-diagnose yourself with depression; only a qualified mental health professional can do that, like someone from our team in Beaumont, TX. It’s also important to remember that if you are diagnosed with depression, you might find that your personal experience varies. That’s okay—it’s why being candid and open with a mental health professional is so important; providing them with feedback about your experience and perspective opens the door to a more personalized treatment process.
Are There Different Types of Depression?
Yes, there are different types of depression. The word “depression” as we commonly think of it actually refers to a cluster of closely related mental health disorders. Some of the most common forms of depression that the mental health professionals at Thriveworks in Beaumont, TX help to treat include:
- Minor depression: As the name suggests, minor depression is related to major depression—it’s typically severe in its effect and duration. Still, those with this condition may seem distant, withdrawn, or overwhelmed with sadness. Minor depression can be harder to detect.
- Bipolar Disorder: This mental health condition can alter someone’s emotions wildly, ranging from elation in one moment to overwhelming despair in the next. Those with bipolar disorder might find it hard to maintain close relationships or jobs due to their unpredictable mood swings.
- Major depressive disorder: This condition captures the popular perception of depression. Those with major depression experience emotional detachment and hopelessness. These factors usually take away from their work, relationships and hobbies.
- Postpartum depression: Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that arises after a woman gives birth. Women who undergo caesarian sections or experience a miscarriage are even more likely to experience this type of depression.
Depending on the type and severity of your depression, you may benefit from working with a counselor or a psychiatrist. While both of these providers can help people manage the symptoms of depression, they do so in different ways. For example, a psychiatrist may be better suited for more severe or persistent cases of depression because they are:
- Medical doctors who are licensed to conduct therapy sessions
- Able to use helpful prescription medicine and therapy as needed to assist people
- Often a better option for those with more severe cases of depression
Call to Schedule Treatment for Your Depression at Thriveworks in Beaumont, TX
Getting the mental health care you need shouldn’t be difficult; that’s why we’ve made enrolling with us as easy as possible. With help seven days a week from our scheduling team, there’s never been a better time to prioritize your emotional wellbeing. Plus, choosing to enroll with us opens the door to a host of exclusive benefits, such as:
- Online therapy: Meet with your provider virtually, and enjoy the freedom to do so from home or the office.
- Our Therapy Buddy app: A personal progress assistant that helps track your journey as you attend therapy.
- A digital copy of “Leaving Depression Behind”: A valuable resource that aims to help people recover from and cope with anxiety.
- Talk with a life coach at Thriveworks: Our Q/A chat line can help you out in-between appointments.
If it seems possible that you’re dealing with depression, it could be helpful to stop and consider whether talking to someone about it could make a difference. If so, we hope you’ll reach out to the counselors, therapists, and psychiatrists at Thriveworks in Beaumont, TX. We look forward to working with you.
