There are many different clinical criteria for diagnosing depression, but most experts agree that there are certain key symptoms that should be present in order to make a diagnosis. These symptoms include persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness, loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and decreased energy levels. Additionally, depressed individuals may also experience feelings of worthlessness or guilt and may have difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
There are many different types of depression, and it can be difficult to identify which type you may be experiencing. Here are some of the most common types:
Major depressive disorder: This is the most common type of depression, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities that you once enjoyed. Major depressive disorder can also cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and weight loss or gain.
Persistent depressive disorder: This type of depression is characterized by a depressed mood that lasts for at least two years. People with persistent depressive disorder may also have symptoms of anxiety, lose interest in activities, and experience changes in appetite and sleeping patterns.
Bipolar disorder: This type of depression is characterized by extreme mood swings, from highs (mania) to lows (depression). Bipolar disorder can also cause confusion, sleep problems, and impaired judgment.
Seasonal affective disorder: This type of depression is characterized by symptoms that occur during the winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. Seasonal affective disorder can cause fatigue, insomnia, and weight gain.
Postpartum depression: This type of depression occurs after childbirth, and can cause feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. Postpartum depression can also make it difficult to bonding with your baby.
Psychotic depression: This type of depression is characterized by severe depression that is accompanied by hallucinations or delusions. Psychotic depression can be very dangerous and requires immediate medical treatment.
Regardless of the type of depression you may be experiencing, it’s important to reach out for professional help. A mental health therapist can work closely with you to help ease symptoms.
Therapy has many positive effects, especially for those suffering with depression. When you first get diagnosed with depression figuring out what to do next can feel overwhelming, but know you have many forms of support to help you find treatment. To find a therapist you can go online and search for therapists in your area or ask your primary doctor. Finding a therapist and beginning therapy can be stressful. Opening up to a stranger is never easy; however, remembering this person is solely there to help you heal and manage your depression can help ease the process.
Depression can never be cured, but therapy has been known to make depression manageable. Therapists can help you find healthy coping mechanisms, which are strategies you can use to help manage your depression in a healthy way. Managing your depression can be nearly impossible alone, but with the help of a therapist you can learn how to better handle your symptoms.
There are many different coping mechanisms that people can use to deal with depression. One of the most common ones include exercise, which is a great way to boost your mood and get endorphins flowing. It can be as simple as a brisk walk around the block or a more intense workout at the gym.
Your therapist may also suggest that you build resilience skills through both social interaction and self-care. Coping mechanisms designed to improve resiliency might be volunteering within the community, setting up a recurring social outing with friends or making a point to put a healthy bedtime routine into place.
Therapy can also help boost your self-confidence. Many people with depression feel vulnerable when discussing their thoughts and symptoms, but the more you practice in therapy the easier it becomes to talk about and identify your feelings. Talking about your feelings gets them out in the open, and therapists can help you understand why you are thinking or feeling a certain way.
Therapy is also great just for being able to discuss stressors that may be contributing to symptoms in a judgment-free space. When you have depression having someone to talk to and support you helps relieve stress and gives you a better understanding of what you are feeling. It is important to express yourself, so your thoughts don’t continue to eat you up inside. However, it tends to be much harder to do this outside of therapy.
A mental health professional can help you look at specific situations differently. A different perspective can help you look at a situation more positively or worry about it less. Overall, therapists can help support you, teach you necessary coping mechanisms, improve your self-confidence and help you heal sustainably. If you haven’t done so already, schedule an appointment today. You’ll be glad you did!
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