Our therapists provide depression counseling in League City, TX

What Are the Basic Signs of Depression?

The basic signs of depression, as defined in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (the DSM-5), are the following:

1. A depressed affect that lasts longer than two weeks and endures for most of the day
2. Changes in appetite which can involve unintentional weight loss or gain
3. Psychomotor retardation (slowed-down thoughts and actions)
4. Fatigue and exhaustion
5. Anhedonia (losing interest or pleasure in activities you normally enjoy)
6. Overwhelming feelings of sadness, guilt, or worthlessness
7. Problems with focus, memory, and decision-making
8. Suicidality (If you are ever considering hurting yourself or someone else, call a crisis hotline immediately.)

Depression counselors at Thriveworks in League City, TX are also on the lookout for additional criteria, such as:

• Psychomotor agitation (sped-up thoughts and actions)
• Sleeping too much or too little (insomnia)
• Changes in sex drive (libido)
• Irritability (which may indicate depression in men more than women)
• Self-medication through substance abuse or addiction
• Social avoidance and isolation

What Are the Best Treatments for Depression?

The depression counselors and psychiatric NPs at Thriveworks in League City, TX can use a multi-pronged therapeutic approach, which may include any of the following:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
• Interpersonal therapy
• Journaling
• Behavioral activation
• Problem-solving therapy
• Psychodynamic therapy
• Holistic remedies like meditation and mindfulness
• Family therapy or couples therapy
• Substance abuse counseling
• Psychiatric medications 

Psychiatric NPs, who are medical professionals, can give clients full evaluations to determine whether they could benefit from one of the many psychotropic drug treatments currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Get Premium Counseling for Depression at Thriveworks in League City, TX

When you call the Thriveworks office or book a session online, a depression counseling session may be scheduled as quickly as 7 days later. Sessions can take place online, via a secure telehealth connection, or in person.

All the mental health providers at Thriveworks accept most major forms of health insurance and insurance plans. Call Thriveworks today to get started on your journey toward emerging from depression.