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If you’ve wondered if you or someone you know might be depressed, consider that one in six people in the United States will experience depression during their lives. Depression involves much more than just feeling sad.
Different types of depression have differing symptoms, which can pop up at any time and for many reasons–but fortunately, all forms of depression are treatable.
This article will answer your questions about this common disorder. We’ll also look at what depression treatment options will best fit your needs.
What is Depression?
Depression is far more severe than just “feeling sad.” All types of depression significantly impact how you think, feel, and act. Depression impairs your ability to fully participate in social life, hobbies, and careers.
Depression looks differently for everyone, with some people displaying apparent signs that we commonly attribute to the disorder (e.g., sleeping too much, feeling low energy). Other folks may be relatively functional and able to get to work; however, they have a lingering feeling of dread or lack of enjoyment that goes beyond circumstances.
Common Depression Symptoms
Depression affects people in various ways. Not everyone will experience the same symptoms, which can vary in intensity. For a diagnosis, symptoms of depression need to last at least two weeks and may include the following:
- Persistent Sadness – feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day
- Loss of Interest or Pleasure – a diminished interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable
- Changes in Sleep Patterns – sleep issues like insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleep) may occur with depression
- Fatigue and Low Energy – feeling constantly tired, even after a whole night’s sleep
- Changes in Appetite or Weight – significant weight loss or gain or a change in appetite
- Difficulty Concentrating – trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things
- Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness – feeling a sense of self-blame or unexplainable guilt
- Irritability – feeling quick to irritation or agitation, impatient, or having a short fuse
- Physical Symptoms – some may experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches or other unexplained physical symptoms like back pain or muscle aches
- Suicidal Thoughts – in severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of death or suicide
Types of Depression
Depression is a common, severe mental health condition that can manifest in various ways, and there are different types of depression. While these types can vary in symptoms, causes, and duration, there are overlapping qualities.
Some common types of depression include:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Major depressive disorder, or clinical depression, causes persistent and severe depressive symptoms that impair a person’s ability to function at work or school, in social settings, and their home life. MDD can occur in single or repeated episodes that can sometimes be hard to distinguish.
Common MDD symptoms include:
- Sadness
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Hopelessness
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Persistent Depressive Disorder, previously referred to as dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression lasting at least two years in adults. For children and adolescents, depressive symptoms last at least one year. It involves milder but longer-lasting depressive symptoms that can impact a person’s overall quality of life.
Someone with persistent depressive symptoms may go days without realizing they feel depressed because they grow accustomed to their experience. They may feel guilty about seeking professional help because others have worse depression.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder involves cycling between major depression and periods of mania or hypomania. Mania is an unusually euphoric, unstable mood, accompanied by irritability and impulsiveness. A person will usually have a decreased need for sleep during a manic episode. Their judgment will become very poor, and they may engage in unusually risky behaviors.
Symptoms can disrupt relationships and a person’s ability to engage at work or school. Contrary to popular belief, people with bipolar also experience neutral, average moods.
There are several variations of bipolar disorder, including Bipolar I and Bipolar II.
Bipolar I
Bipolar I disorder involves manic symptoms with a higher intensity. A person with Bipolar I could experience delusions or psychotic features considered a medical or psychiatric emergency. Bipolar I is often treated with medications and therapy to help stabilize moods and decrease symptoms interfering with the person’s ability to live a healthy life.
Bipolar II
Bipolar II involves hypomania, a less intense version of mania, that does not generally require extreme intervention or psychiatric hospitalization. This subtype of bipolar disorder requires at least one major depressive episode for proper diagnosis. Additionally, hypomanic episodes must last at least four days to meet the criteria.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, typically during the fall and winter when there is less natural sunlight. It is often associated with symptoms of fatigue, oversleeping, and increased appetite. People who struggle with seasonal affective disorder generally know what to expect and often use at-home treatments, like light therapy, to lessen its impact.
Psychotic Depression
Psychotic depression involves severe depressive symptoms and features of psychosis, such as delusions or hallucinations. While not technically a separate depressive disorder, psychosis is a potential “add-on” for someone with major depressive disorder.
The psychotic features of this type of depression may include hallucinations, delusions, or other thinking disturbances that could significantly compromise the safety of the person with this diagnosis.
Atypical Depression
Atypical depression creates symptoms that don’t fit the typical pattern of depression. People with this type of depression may experience mood or emotional “boosts” in response to positive events. This shift in affect can lead to an increased appetite with or without weight gain, excessive sleep, and limb heaviness.
Like psychotic depression, atypical depression is considered a diagnostic specifier. For example, someone with Major Depressive Disorder could also have atypical traits. Receiving a specific diagnosis can significantly aid in treatment outcomes.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression, also known as peripartum depression, affects approximately one in seven women after giving birth. Low moods, anxiety, irritability, and fatigue characterize this type of depression. It can interfere with a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby, but it is treatable.
Postpartum depression can affect a mother immediately, weeks, or even months after the birth of her child. Many times, this state of depression is related to the support the mother receives in the vulnerable stages immediately following the birthing experience.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes significant mood disturbances in the 7-10 days leading up to menstruation. Women with PMDD report feeling a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that don’t appear to have another cause.
Common symptoms of PMDD include:
Mood swings
Depressed mood
Increased anxiety or tension
Difficulty focusing
Specific food cravings
Feeling easily overwhelmed
Situational Depression
Situational depression occurs in response to specific life events or stressors, such as losing a loved one, a breakup, or a traumatic event. It is often temporary and typically resolves as the individual copes with the situation.
Do I Have Depression?
Depression is more than sadness; it’s hard to explain your symptoms because your life may appear ideal on the outside. Depression doesn’t discriminate, however, and it’s possible that you have lived with a functional level of symptoms and didn’t realize it. Some people go years without realizing that their experience has not been positive, and they can feel better after all.
It’s important to note that these types of depression can co-occur, and an individual may experience a combination of symptoms. Additionally, the specific diagnostic criteria and classifications of depression may evolve as our understanding of mental health conditions advances. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Depression Treatment at NuLife Behavioral Health
Enduring a depressive disorder is challenging, but your quality of life can improve with appropriate depression treatment and coping strategies. Being assessed for depression and creating a plan with a mental health professional is the first step in feeling better.
A treatment plan for a person with depression may include ongoing psychotherapy with behavioral and interpersonal approaches. Psychiatric professionals may also recommend therapeutic medications to stabilize moods and increase energy alongside counseling. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) family of medications is one example of medications given for depression.
In addition to therapy and medications, depression is responsive to lifestyle changes. Physical movement or exercise can address and prevent mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Eating a nutrient-dense and balanced diet can reduce blood sugar crashes and nutrient deficiencies that may contribute to depressive symptoms.
What Services Does NuLife Illinois Provide?
At NuLife Behavioral Health Illinois, we offer an all-encompassing strategy for tackling depression, including situations when depression is accompanied by substance addiction.
One-on-One Counseling
Individual therapy sessions with a licensed mental health professional help explore the psychological factors contributing to your depression. Techniques such as mindfulness and stress management are often employed to help you gain better control over your impulses and reactions.
Group Therapy Sessions
Group therapy offers a platform for mutual support, allowing you to learn from others who are also recovering from depression.
Family Therapy
People with depression benefit from a strong support network. By including family members in the therapy process, the health and wellbeing of a client is improved.
Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders
We offer specialized treatment plans for those grappling with additional mental health issues alongside addiction. This holistic approach treats addiction and accompanying mental health conditions, offering a more comprehensive recovery path.
Intensive Outpatient Options
Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is an option for people who have completed more intensive treatment, such as partial hospitalization or require a more flexible schedule. The IOP combines individual and group therapy sessions, educational groups, and relapse prevention modules. IOP lasts 2-3 hours a day, 2 to 3 days a week.
Partial Hospitalization Programs
NuLife Behavioral Health’s partial hospitalization program is an excellent option for those who have completed an inpatient rehab but still need the daily support and structure of treatment. PHP requires more time than our other outpatient services—approximately 4 to 5 hours a day, 5 days a week. Like intensive outpatient participants, persons in partial hospitalization will go home in the evening.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
TMS is a research-supported, non-invasive treatment approved by the FDA for use with depression, including treatment-resistant depression. TMS uses focused magnetic fields to stimulate areas within the brain that are underactive or inactive. TMS sessions take place on an outpatient basis and require no downtime.
KEY TAKEAWAY:
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of the previously mentioned types of depression, seek help from a mental health professional. Depression is a treatable condition, and various treatment options, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, can help you manage and overcome your symptoms. It’s essential not to ignore the signs of depression and to seek support to improve mental well-being. Mental health treatment is available in the Chicago area at NuLife Behavioral Health in Buffalo Grove, IL. If you or a loved one is experiencing depression, reach out now to get started.
Get Started at NuLife Behavioral Health Illinois
The PHP at NuLife Behavioral Health Illinois is just one of the many levels of care that we offer. If you or your loved one is struggling with a mental health concern or a substance use disorder, our team is here to help.
Call us today at 844.383.0626 or reach out online to learn more about how we can help you begin the path to a new life.
