Depression takes on many forms. Sometimes it can masquerade as a chronic feeling of “just not caring” about anything. You may have even stopped wanting to do things that you used to think were fun. Maybe it just seems too hard or not worth it to get out of bed and go to work, because you don’t want to face the stress that is waiting for you there. Sometimes it can be disguised as “always being in a bad mood”, an irritability or anger that you just can’t shake. Many people who chronically experience these feelings don’t know that they may actually have depression.
Other times, it rears it’s ugly head in an obvious way. You have persistent negative thoughts. You may be feeling hopeless and helpless about your situation. People have noticed that you’re withdrawn. You’ve been crying a lot. In the darkest times, you may have thought about harming yourself. The good news is this condition is highly treatable. It starts with reaching out. There is hope, and hope is a good antidote.
What Causes Depression?
Many different factors can contribute to developing depression. These include genetics (it tends to run in families), trauma, such as abuse, health problems, certain medications, substance abuse, and personal problems. Regardless of cause, there are effective treatments.
Treatments
The therapists at Envision Counseling Center can help you learn new ways to manage your depression by changing negative thinking patterns, making positive behavior changes and improving problem solving skills. You and your therapist will collaborate on a treatment plan to help you start feeling like your old self again. Other symptoms that are related to depression that can treated in therapy are:
• Low self- esteem
• Mood swings
• Insomnia
• Anger
• Grief
In addition to therapy, your therapist can refer you to a medication prescriber if indicated. At times, inpatient treatment may be needed. If you are having suicidal thoughts, seek inpatient treatment or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.