Feeling sad or discouraged from time to time is all part of being human. When things don’t work out the way you’d hoped or you lose a pet or loved one, you may even feel profound grief that is difficult to cope with. But eventually, you start to feel like yourself again, even if it feels like a part of you is missing.
However, depression goes beyond feeling sad or experiencing deep-seated grief. Depressive disorders can disrupt the way you think, feel, and behave; left untreated, they can start to interfere with your ability to lead a normal, healthy life.
Millions of people worldwide are affected by depression and many people struggle to manage their symptoms and emotions. Symptoms can be physically debilitating, inhibit your ability to maintain relationships, and even undermine your performance at work or school.
If you think you may be experiencing depression, getting treatment can reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms, and make them easier to manage. At Thriveworks in St. Paul, MN, our therapists and counselors are ready to meet you and guide you on the journey to better mental health.
What Are Common Signs or Symptoms of Depression?
There are many different forms of depression, and each one can look and feel different from one person to the next. This can often make it difficult to recognize depressive disorders without the help of a licensed mental health professional.
Depression, like many other mental health issues, is often influenced by a variety of factors including biology, genetics, brain chemistry, and hormones. Regardless of the specific type or cause of your depression, there are some common symptoms that tend to be considered standard manifestations.
Common depression symptoms may include:
- Loss of interest or joy in normal activities
- Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or tearfulness
- Fatigue or low energy
- Trouble thinking or concentrating
- Slowed speakingor movement
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Irritability, frustration, agitation, or angry outbursts
- Anxiety, restlessness, or muscle tension
- Headaches, dizziness, or unexplained physical pain
The symptoms of depression do not often go away on their own. Attempting to manage depression symptoms without the guidance of a licensed professional can often lead to substance abuse, self-harm, or other destructive behaviors.
But getting treatment for your depression or mood disorder may be easier than you think. At Thriveworks in St. Paul, MN, we have appointments available on nights and weekends, either in-person, over the phone, or by video chat. Connect with a therapist or counselor today to start working toward a brighter tomorrow.
How Does Depression Therapy Work?
Since depression can look different from person to person, treatment for depression will be tailored to the specific issues you’re facing. Your therapist will begin by establishing a diagnosis for your depression and create a treatment plan built around your particular disorder, taking factors like your personality, preferences, and concerns into account.
The recommendations your counselor makes for treatment are likely to include one or more types of talk therapy. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are two common forms of therapy that are effective in treating many forms of depression ranging from postpartum depression to major depressive disorder.
It is not uncommon for your therapist or counselor to also suggest the addition of prescription medications like antidepressants to ease depression symptoms and complement talk therapy. Your provider may work with a psychiatrist or your primary care physician to facilitate the prescription and monitoring of these medications.
When you are ready to take the next step in overcoming your depression, Thriveworks in St. Paul, MN makes it easy to get started. Book your first therapy session online or by calling our helpful scheduling team.
Book an Appointment for Depression Therapy at Thriveworks in St. Paul, MN
You don’t have to cope with depression on your own. The team of mental health professionals at Thriveworks in St. Paul, MN can offer the support you need to reduce symptoms and get your life back on track.
At Thriveworks, we offer appointments seven days a week with extended morning and evening hours. Online counseling is also available so you can fit therapy sessions into your busy schedule no matter where you are. You’ll also have phone and email access to your provider between visits, or you can take advantage of our moderated community discussions for the times when you need a little extra support. Your free e-copy of “Leaving Depression Behind” and our exclusive online video content can also help you navigate your symptoms and concerns in between sessions.
The mental health professionals at Thriveworks in St. Paul, MN are experienced and passionate about treating depression and helping you thrive. Get in touch with us today to start regaining control of your mental health and getting the most out of life.
