Depression is a major mental health concern in America that affects millions of adults and teens. The feeling of emptiness and despair that accompanies depression causes people to stop taking pleasure in life. Being unhappy or down is not the same as being depressed. While it’s normal sometimes to feel bad when life doesn’t go your way, major depressive disorder is much more complicated and serious. There are specific symptoms that must be present for a diagnosis of major depression. That’s why it’s a good idea to know the signs of depression so that you can seek help sooner rather than later.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with persistent, unshakable feelings of despair, there’s no reason to hesitate before starting depression treatment, as untreated depression typically gets worse, not better. Promont Wellness offers mental health treatment in Southampton, PA, with treatments for depression, anxiety, and other common mental health disorders. Many people with depression can achieve long-term recovery with medication, psychotherapy, or both. Reclaiming your life is possible; the sooner you start, the better. Contact the Promont Wellness admissions team at 866.545.9552 for more information about depression treatment.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a type of mood disorder that involves prolonged periods of feeling sad, empty, or worthless. Those who experience depression often lose the ability to enjoy daily life and feel unmotivated to change. There are a number of different types of depressive disorders, such as:
- Major depressive disorder or clinical depression
- Persistent depressive disorder or dysthymia
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Postpartum depression
When people talk about depression, they are most often talking about clinical depression. For someone to be diagnosed with clinical depression, symptoms must be present nearly every day for at least two weeks.
5 Signs of Depression
People who struggle with depression will typically experience symptoms multiple times throughout their life. During a depressive episode, symptoms will frequently occur throughout the day, nearly every day. Some of the major symptoms of depression include:
1. Feelings of Sadness and Emptiness
A pervasive feeling of hopelessness and emptiness is one of the main hallmarks of major depression. These thoughts and feelings may be persistent and difficult to control. Other emotions that are often associated with depression include inappropriate guilt or anger.
2. Loss of Energy or Increased Fatigue
It’s not uncommon for those struggling with depression to feel as though they are tired all the time. Some people will stay in bed for extended periods of time during depressive episodes. This is one of the most debilitating symptoms of depression, as it affects a person’s ability to fulfill work, school, or family responsibilities.
3. Disturbed Sleep Patterns
An inability to sleep properly is a common symptom of depression. Many of those who suffer from depression struggle with persistent thoughts and feelings of sadness and emptiness, making it difficult for them to sleep. Strangely, the opposite can also be true. Some people will find that they sleep too much during a depressive episode, usually because of the fatigue associated with the condition.
4. Loss of Interest in Typical Activities
People suffering from depression are often unable to enjoy activities that were once pleasurable. They can quickly retreat into themselves and stop participating in hobbies or pastimes that once were a significant part of their lives. This isolation can serve to worsen their condition, as social activities help improve people’s moods and allow them to feel connected to other people.
5. Inability to Practice Self-Care
This is one of the more visible aspects of depression, as a person’s appearance can quickly deteriorate if they stop eating, bathing, or grooming themselves. The lack of motivation to practice self-care can feed the other symptoms of depression, as the feelings of worthlessness and emptiness can get worse once someone stops taking care of themselves.
While any one of these on their own is not indicative of depression, multiple symptoms presenting themselves over two weeks can be cause for a diagnosis of depression. Of course, a mental health professional must be the one to make this diagnosis. This is why seeking help for depression is so important.
Get Depression Treatment at Promont Wellness in Southampton, PA
If you’re ready to take the first step on your journey to recovery from depression, our mental health experts are ready to guide you. Our team members are passionate about providing accessible mental health treatment to our community in Southampton, PA. Promont Wellness offers a personalized approach to treatment in a nonjudgmental environment where clients can feel safe and supported. To learn more, contact us at 866.545.9552 or via our online form.
