Depression affects people from all walks of life. Left untreated, it zaps all of life’s pleasure and can also ravage your physical health. Depression, however, is highly treatable. Read on to learn more.
Depression affects about 15% of adults at some point in their lives. While depression is highly treatable, only about 33% of people newly diagnosed with depression get treatment. The numbers decrease for minorities and older individuals.
At Houston Medical-Mental Health Clinic, Lucas Egebe, PMHNP-BC, DNP, we treat many mental disorders via telehealth, ranging from depression to anxiety.
As an expert in mental health, Amneh has a unique understanding of the impact that depression can have on your daily life. She provides the support and guidance you need to overcome depression and resume your normal activities, all while you remain in the comfort of your home.
Find out more about depression and when your worrying may indicate the need to seek our help.
Understanding depression
People encounter depression for a variety of reasons. Experiencing a significant life change, a loved one’s death, or a life-threatening illness can initiate uncontrollable feelings of sadness and loneliness that overtake your emotions. Having a family history of depression can make you more likely to suffer from this condition.
There are many types of depression. Each one affects people differently. Some common types of depression include:
Major depression
Major depression, or major depressive disorder, affects a person most of the time, almost every day, even if there’s no apparent reason for their depression.
Persistent depression
Persistent depression, or persistent depressive disorder, lasts for at least two years. It involves a combination of persistent low-grade depression and chronic major depression that can alternate.
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder, or manic depression, affects episodes that alternate from highly high energy periods to extremely low periods of significant depression.
Depressive psychosis
Depressive psychosis, or psychotic depression, involves periods of major depression during which people lose touch with reality and may include delusions or hallucinations.
Seasonal affective disorder
Seasonal affective disorder causes feelings of depression at the same time every year. It typically begins in the fall and continues through the winter months when there is less natural sunlight.
Peripartum or postpartum depression
Peripartum or postpartum depression strikes women after childbirth. The condition can interfere with a woman’s transition into motherhood and her ability to take care of her baby.
Situational depression
Situational depression occurs when you develop temporary symptoms of depression concerning a specific stressful life event such as a divorce or job loss.
When to seek help
While there are many forms of depression, they are alike in that they generally produce emotional and physical symptoms that indicate something is wrong.
Depression affects everyone in different ways. You should seek treatment if you experience any of the following symptoms on most days for at least two weeks:
Ignoring these symptoms or the impact they have on your daily life can allow your condition to worsen. Untreated depression can ruin relationships, affect the way you handle work responsibilities, and damage your physical well-being.
Living with untreated depression can also increase your risk of dangerous behaviors such as alcohol or drug addiction. If you have thoughts of suicide, leaving your depression untreated increases your risk of following through on these thoughts.
How treatment can help
When you contact Houston Medical-Mental Health Clinic for help with your depression, you receive a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment recommendation. We provide expert, compassionate care based on the latest science and treatment modalities.
Depression is considered one of the most treatable of all mental health conditions. Up to 90% of people with depression eventually improve with appropriate treatment.
Depression is typically managed with medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of these treatments, depending on your symptoms.
If you have severe symptoms that don’t improve with medication and psychotherapy, we may recommend that you investigate brain stimulation therapies, such as electroconvulsive therapy.
Don’t suffer alone with symptoms of depression. We can help you improve your feelings and have a better quality of life. Instead, call or contact us online today.