Alex has always been mild and even-tempered. He loves nothing more than catching a movie with his friends and grabbing late dinners with colleagues.
But sometimes, Alex’s temperament shifts unexpectedly. His usual calm demeanor is replaced with frantic energy. He engages in uncharacteristically risky behavior and seems exceedingly happy regardless of what’s happening in his life.
At other times, his mood shifts in the opposite direction. Try as he might, he can’t seem to shake persistent feelings of pessimism. Instead of rock climbing at the gym, he can barely climb out of bed. No matter how excited or thrilled he felt days before, he just can’t bring himself to feel that way on days like this.
Alex spends years bobbing between his mild-mannered nature and days filled with excitement or burdened with apathy. Because he generally functions just fine, he decides to ignore the problem.
But when Alex misses his little sister’s graduation ceremony because he can’t find the strength to leave his apartment, he decides enough is enough. Alex makes an online appointment to speak to a professional. Two days later, he meets with a counselor for the first time in his life.
Based on his symptoms, his counselor diagnoses him with cyclothymia, a mild mood disorder that is characterized by moments of elation (highs) punctuated by moments of depression (lows).
Alex’s provider customizes a treatment plan that helps him manage his symptoms. In time, Alex is able to pinpoint his out-of-character moments and use the appropriate coping techniques to stop himself from doing anything regrettable.
Depressive disorders can take on many different forms, from major depression to mild cyclothymia like Alex’s. Regardless of the severity, depression deserves specialized care and treatment.
If you’ve ever had feelings of depression, our team at Thriveworks in Salem, OR is ready to assist you.
Forms of Depression and Common Causes
When treating depression, a professional must first assess your symptoms and identify the type of mood disorder you face. There are several different forms of depression, including:
- Bipolar disorder
- Postpartum depression
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)
Depression can be caused by biology and genetics (bipolar disorder, persistent depressive disorder), hormones (premenstrual dysphoric disorder, major depressive disorder), or changes in the season (seasonal affective disorder). Personality, stressful or big life events, substance abuse, and the environment can also play a role in developing any of the above depressive disorders.
To know the root of your mental health challenge, a professional will need to make an assessment. If you’d like to get started with a licensed counselor or therapist, consider calling us at Thriveworks in Salem, OR. We would love to assist you.
When Is the Right Time To Seek Depression Therapy?
With symptoms such as fatigue, disinterest, and sadness, depression can feel overwhelming. It may decrease your motivation to work or play, and it can negatively impact your relationships with your friends, colleagues, and family members.
But depression is treatable. With guidance and planning, you can retake the reins of your life and steer yourself back on course.
Depression therapy gives you the chance to speak to a professional provider who can diagnose and treat your specific condition. They may use a form of talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to help address the issues that are contributing to your symptoms. Medication may be prescribed, and you may be asked to complete out-of-office tasks and assessments that will help you manage your illness for the long term.
Your treatment plan will be customized to fit your needs and goals. At Thriveworks in Salem, OR, we look forward to helping you find the right course of action to make a positive impact on your life. Reach out to us today for more information.
Scheduling a Visit With a Therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in Salem, OR
If you believe you have any of the signs or symptoms of depression, please do not hesitate to contact us at Thriveworks. We have appointments available throughout the week and weekend, and new clients are often able to see a counselor or therapist within the first 24 to 48 hours of contacting us.
We offer a number of perks, including access to a counselor-moderated community board, online video and phone counseling services, and offices with early and late closing times.
The decision to start therapy isn’t always an easy one but our caring professionals at Thriveworks in Salem, OR, will be with you every step of the way. When you’re ready to make a change, call or contact us online for your first therapy appointment.
