Have you ever felt sad, worthless, or hopeless over insignificant matters, or seemingly no reason at all? Maybe you’ve been completely unmotivated lately, even lazy, while also feeling extremely guilty about it. Or perhaps your sleep habits or appetite inexplicably changed suddenly.
All of these symptoms are common signs of depression that may go unrecognized, ignored, misdiagnosed, or untreated. Depression is a common but serious mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Depressive disorders can influence the way you feel, think, and behave. Left untreated, depression may negatively impact your relationships, performance at school or work, and may even keep you from completing basic daily tasks.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of depression, a mental health professional at Thriveworks in West Des Moines, IA can help. Our therapists and counselors are trained to help you understand your condition and cope with symptoms so they stop interfering with your life.
Recognizing Different Causes and Types of Depression
People of all ethnicities, genders, and ages can experience depressive disorders. Because depression can come in many different forms and occurs in different degrees of severity, the symptoms can vary widely and often present differently from one person to the next.
Depressive disorders don’t affect everyone the same way, mainly because there are so many different forms of depression. Some forms of depression are brought on by very specific circumstances, while others may appear without a clearly discernible reason.
Some of the most common forms of depression include the following:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, trouble concentrating, and other symptoms that last more than two weeks and interfere with daily life. MDD may be linked to genetics, brain chemistry, hormones, or trauma.
- Postpartum depression (PPD) is a depressive disorder some women experience after giving birth. It’s more intense and longer-lasting than “baby blues,” and may interfere with your ability to care for your baby or yourself. Untreated, PPD may last for months or even longer, or develop into other serious mental illnesses.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a depressive disorder whose onset is often timed to the changing of the seasons, most commonly affecting people during fall and winter months when there is less natural daylight. Depression symptoms may disappear during spring and summer but often return again by the following winter. SAD may be impacted by your biological rhythm, serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain, or other mental health issues.
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) is a chronic, long-term form of depression characterized by depressive symptoms that last for more than two years. Symptoms of persistent depressive disorder may come and go over time with variations in intensity, but almost never go away for more than two consecutive months.
It’s easy to misdiagnose depression without the help of a mental health professional. Many people end up attributing their symptoms to other health issues or outside factors. If you are unsure whether the symptoms you’re experiencing are related to depression, consider speaking with a licensed mental health professional at Thriveworks in West Des Moines, IA.
Why Should I Consider Depression Therapy?
Treating depression effectively almost always requires the help and guidance of a mental health professional. Trying to cope by yourself may work in the short term but can sometimes cause symptoms to worsen or lead to harmful actions such as substance abuse or self-harm.
A licensed therapist or counselor can help diagnose, treat, and manage depression symptoms by using an individualized treatment plan consisting of one or more therapeutic techniques. Various forms of talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be helpful, especially when they are combined with certain lifestyle adjustments or prescribed medications.
Thriveworks in West Des Moines, IA can connect you with a therapist, counselor, or another mental health provider who can help you understand what you’re going through. They’ll show you how to cope with your symptoms and manage or prevent future depressive episodes so you can focus on doing the things you love.
Getting Help: Therapy for Depression With Thriveworks in West Des Moines, IA
Taking the first step in recognizing and treating your depression can feel difficult or daunting but Thriveworks in West Des Moines, IA makes it easy to begin counseling with a licensed therapist as soon as you’re ready. We can often accommodate new clients within 24 to 48 hours and offer several membership benefits to help you get the support you need when you need it.
Thriveworks clients can look forward to the following:
- Online therapy opportunities
- Weekend and evening appointments
- Access to providers by phone or email in between therapy sessions
- Exclusive online video content
- Ask-a-coach 24-hour Q&A
- A free e-copy of “Leaving Depression Behind”
You don’t have to face depression on your own. Let the mental health professionals at Thriveworks in West Des Moines, IA show you how it is possible to overcome your symptoms, control your depression, and get the most out of each day.