What is Depression?

Life can feel like a rollercoaster at times. It has its ups and downs and twists and turns. Past, present, and future life events can greatly impact how we experience each day.

Some days may feel like everything is going perfectly smoothly. Other days may feel a bit harder and more challenging. Feeling sad or down from time to time can be normal. It’s a common emotion that everyone experiences, along with other emotions like happiness, jealousy, or anger.

When that sadness is experienced for up to two weeks or more, it could be a sign that something else is going on.

Let’s learn more about depression.

What is Depression?

Depression is an extremely common and also serious mental illness and mood disorder. It can affect how a person acts, feels, and thinks about themselves and the world around them. If left untreated, depression can start to impact other areas of a person’s life negatively like their career, education, and/or relationships.

The Cause

There isn’t one specific cause of depression. Depression can affect children, teenagers, and adults. That being said, there are several believed causes or risk factors that can play a role in the development of depression. These are some of the most common causes or risk factors:

• Brain chemistry

• Genetics

• Life factors

• Medical conditions

• Medication

• Personality

The Signs and Symptoms

There are many different signs and symptoms of depression. Not everyone suffering from depression will show the same signs and symptoms, though. These are some of the most common signs and symptoms to look out for when it comes to depression:

• Changes in appetite

• Difficulty making decisions

• Guilt

• Lack of concentration

• Loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed

• Sadness

• Sleeping problems

• Suicidal ideation or attempt

• Unable to sit still

• Weight gain

• Weight loss

• Worthlessness

While some signs are easier to spot compared to others, some signs may not be noticeable to an outside party. A lot of people not suffering from depression can also experience these same signs and symptoms throughout their lifetime, which can make depression harder to spot. It’s important to know that signs and symptoms of depression, as opposed to normal sadness, are usually present for at least two weeks or longer. This timeframe indicates a more serious matter is at hand instead of just feeling down or out of sorts.

Treatment Options

Struggling with signs and symptoms of depression can be very serious, especially if left untreated. Thankfully, depression is an extremely treatable condition. Since the cause of depression, as well as the signs and symptoms, are unique to each individual, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to treatment. If you suspect that you or a loved one are struggling with signs or symptoms of depression, it’s important to seek additional support as soon as possible. The longer those signs and symptoms are left untreated, the worse they can get. These are a few of the different lifestyle changes and treatment methods you can try to help you cope and better manage those signs and symptoms:

• Avoiding alcohol

• Eating a healthy and well-balanced diet

• Exercise

• Managing stress levels

• Medication

• Prioritizing your sleep

• Spending time with loved ones

• Therapy

Getting Help

While there are certain lifestyle changes that you can implement on your own end to help reduce some of the signs and symptoms you may be dealing with, there isn’t a true replacement for seeking additional support from a licensed and trained mental health professional. While depression may make you feel like you’re alone, you’re not. We’re here to help support you however you need it. Reach out to us today to set up a consultation.

Read about our Depression Therapy in Washington DC and VA.