Depression Therapy

What is Depression?

Have you lost interest in the things you once enjoyed?

Do you often feel like things will never get better?

Are daily activities extremely difficult to get through?

Do you have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning?

If so, you are not alone. A variety of reasons can cause signs and symptoms of depression. These include the loss of a relationship or a family member, negative life events, or pressures from having to keep up with everyday functioning. Many people also experience symptoms of depression from unemployment and work or school-related stress.

Almost 10% of Americans suffer from depression. However, this is not a condition that only affects adults. Depression rates are increasing among our teenagers. In 2018-2019, 15% of children between the ages of 12 and 17 had a major depressive episode. The increasing rate of depression in teens is particularly alarming after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Depression is painful not only for the person suffering but also for their loved ones. Depression symptoms can negatively affect how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. You may isolate yourself from your loved ones and no longer participate in things that once brought you joy. It is important to note that depression is different from sadness or grief. Symptoms of depression must last at least two weeks and there must be a change from your previous functioning for a diagnosis. If the sadness persists and inhibits your day-to-day life, you may need to contact a professional. Major depressive disorder therapy is available here.

COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION 

Major depressive disorder symptoms may differ in severity from mild depression symptoms. Below are some common symptoms of depression:

  • Feeling sad or having a depressed mood

  • Lack of motivation

  • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

  • Changes in appetite 

  • Insomnia or change in sleep patterns 

  • Feeling worthless or guilty

  • Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions

  • Hopelessness

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

  • Relationship issues
     

PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

You may also have physical symptoms of depression. These can include:

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Stomachaches

  • Unexplained physical ailments

  • Digestive issues

SIGNS OF DEPRESSION IN TEENS

While teens can present with depression symptoms similar to those of adults, there are additional factors to be mindful of when identifying symptoms of depression in teens.

These can include: 

  • Withdrawal from social activities, friends and family

  • Irritability, anger, frustration

  • Risk-seeking behavior

  • Decreased self-esteem

  • Loss of appetite

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Substance abuse

HOW CAN DEPRESSION THERAPY AT TRUST MENTAL HEALTH HELP? 

Depression can cause a sense of hopelessness and despair. The first step is acknowledging that it is not all in your head.

Depression is treatable. We can help you look forward to life and find happiness in the things you once enjoyed again. You do not have to live with depression forever and you certainly do not have to battle it alone.  Many people have successful treatment through depression therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Trust Mental Health can match you with a therapist that will help you find new ways of looking at your situation and create concrete steps to get your life back on track.

Through depression therapy, our therapists offer a safe space for you to understand and navigate your emotions. Depression therapy aims to help you recognize your unhealthy thought patterns and how your behavior may be influenced by them. We offer several approaches to treating depression including mindfulness, Talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. These are all some of the best treatments for depression. In addition, we offer a safe space for you to share and talk about what you are going through. It can be a relief to find a regular, non-judgmental space with a therapist you trust.

Through the guidance and support of depression therapy, you can learn to ease your unhappiness through intentionality and paying attention to the present moment. We understand that depression therapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, and are committed to finding the best solution tailored to you. With the right treatment, we can find a way out. We offer severe depression treatment, as well as more mild depression treatment. No matter the extent of your symptoms, you deserve support.

Due to the high comorbidity of the two mental health conditions, we have many therapists for depression and anxiety. They can help you tackle multiple challenges at once.

Sadness is normal, but don’t let depression take control of your life. Take the step toward mental wellness and contact us for a free 15-minute consultation. Our team of BIPOC therapists offers therapy in California, both in-person and online, via telehealth.

FAQs

  • While some mild cases of depression may improve without treatment, moderate to severe depression typically requires treatment. Seeking help can significantly improve the quality of life and prevent the condition from worsening.

  • The time frame for improvement varies. Some people may start to feel better within a few weeks of treatment, while for others, it may take several months. It's important to follow the treatment plan and communicate with your healthcare provider about progress.

  • Yes, therapy has been proven to be an effective treatment for depression. There are different therapy modalities that can be effective for depression, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

  • Someone may be more likely to develop depression due to experiences of childhood trauma, emotional neglect, postpartum experiences, a family history of depression, major life changes, or substance misuse.

  • Depression in women can manifest with a variety of emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms. While many symptoms overlap with those experienced by men, some symptoms can be more pronounced or occur more frequently in women due to biological, hormonal, and psychosocial factors, including sleep disturbances, appetite changes, neglecting responsibilities, difficulty regulating emotions, and postpartum depression.