Depression is a serious but very common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be difficult to recognize for many people and may go unnoticed or untreated for some time, but not without consequence. Like many other mood disorders and mental health problems, depression can interfere with your daily life and affect the way you feel, think, and behave.
Left ignored or untreated, depressive disorders can have a negative effect on your relationships, your job, and even your day-to-day errands and hobbies. Unfortunately, depression rarely goes away on its own, and trying to push through on your own can often lead to worsening of symptoms, self-harm, or substance abuse.
Depression can interfere with your ability to lead a normal life and take a heavy toll on your mental health — but support is available. If you think you or someone you love may be experiencing depression, a therapist at Thriveworks in Tuscaloosa, AL can help. When you’re ready to make a change in your life, we’re here to provide you with guidance, support, and professional expertise.
Recognizing Depression: Common Signs and Symptoms
There are many different forms of depression, and each one may be caused or influenced by various life factors. Sometimes, genetics and biology can determine whether you or a family member develop depressive disorders like major depressive disorder or persistent depressive disorder. Other forms of depression such as postpartum depression, situational depression, or seasonal affective disorder may be influenced by specific events, experiences, hormonal changes, or a combination of contributing factors.
Depression can be difficult to recognize and diagnose in part because there are so many different types of depression, but also because the symptoms are so numerous and can vary widely from one person to the next. Even if two people are diagnosed with the same depressive disorder, their experience and symptoms associated with their condition will likely be different.
Even so, there are some common symptoms often experienced by people with depression, including the following:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness
- Fatigue, lethargy, or tiredness
- Insomnia or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Loss of interest or joy in most activities
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, or remembering things
- Difficulty making decisions
- Agitation, irritability, or angry outbursts
- Headaches, dizziness, or unexplained pain
Recognizing and managing the symptoms of depression can be much easier to do with the help of a licensed mental health professional. Thriveworks in Tuscaloosa, AL can connect you with a counselor or therapist to guide you through diagnosing, treating, and preventing your depression symptoms. Book your first appointment online or call our friendly scheduling team for assistance.
Can Depression Therapy Help Me?
While depression is considered a serious mental health issue, it is also highly treatable with the help of a mental health professional. Even in severe cases, depression symptoms can be effectively managed and kept at bay with proper treatment. Treating depression often requires a multifaceted approach and is highly customized depending on each client’s specific situation.
When you begin therapy for depression, your provider will take your specific issues, concerns, symptoms, experiences, and emotions into account to form a diagnosis for your condition. They will then create a unique treatment plan that may include one or more different types of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy. Techniques like meditation, breathing practices, or lifestyle adjustments may also be included in your plan, along with the addition of prescription medication to help you cope with your symptoms.
Depressive disorders and other mental health problems can be difficult and overwhelming to live with, but treating depression may be easier and more accessible than you think. New clients can often meet with a therapist or counselor at Thriveworks in Tuscaloosa, AL in as little as 24 to 48 hours. To begin your journey, connect with us today and schedule your first session.
Book Your Appointment With a Therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in Tuscaloosa, AL
When you are ready to confront and overcome your depression or other mood disorder, the mental health professionals at Thriveworks in Tuscaloosa, AL are here to help. We accept many insurance plans and offer other benefits that make it easier to get the help you need when you need it.
Thriveworks clients can look forward to the following:
- Weekend and evening therapy sessions
- Email and phone access to your provider between appointments
- Online counseling opportunities
- Exclusive online video content
- Free e-copy of “Leaving Depression Behind”
- Flexible cancellation policy
Depression can affect and control many parts of your life but support is available. Let a therapist or counselor at Thriveworks in Tuscaloosa, AL show you how you can regain control over your mental health and your life so you can get the most out of each and every day. You can thrive — we can help.
