Therapeutic Specialties

Depression

Stuck in the past and unsure of how to move forward!?! Let’s talk about it. Depression can make you feel like you are walking through mud. 

Depression and mood disorders refer to a group of mental health conditions that primarily affect a person’s emotional state, causing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability. While everyone experiences mood changes from time to time, mood disorders involve more severe, prolonged disturbances that can interfere with daily life. 

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD) or clinical depression, is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, and a variety of other emotional and physical symptoms. Depression is more than just feeling "down" for a short time—it is a long-lasting condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions.

Symptoms of Depression:

  • Emotional symptoms: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness. A person may feel empty or unable to experience joy (anhedonia).

  • Behavioral symptoms: Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, social withdrawal, or neglecting responsibilities.

  • Cognitive symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or thinking clearly. Thoughts of death or suicide may also occur.

  • Physical symptoms: Changes in appetite (eating too much or too little), sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping), fatigue, and aches or pains without a clear physical cause.

Depression can affect people differently, and symptoms may range from mild to severe. In some cases, it may lead to suicidal thoughts or behavior, which requires immediate attention.

Types of Depression

  1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD):

    • Characterized by a consistent low mood and other symptoms lasting at least two weeks. It may occur once or as recurring episodes throughout a person's life.

  2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), also known as Dysthymia:

    • A chronic form of depression where symptoms last for at least two years, though they may be less severe than MDD. People with PDD may experience periods of mild depression alongside episodes of major depression.

  3. Bipolar Disorder:

    • Involves mood swings that include depressive episodes (similar to major depression) and periods of mania or hypomania (elevated mood, over-activity, impulsive behavior). There are two types:

      • Bipolar I Disorder: Characterized by manic episodes that may last for a week or more and can be very severe, along with depressive episodes.

      • Bipolar II Disorder: Features hypomanic episodes (less severe than manic episodes) and depressive episodes.

  4. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):

    • A type of depression that occurs seasonally, typically in the winter months when there is less sunlight. Symptoms include fatigue, increased sleep, weight gain, and a general feeling of sadness.

  5. Postpartum Depression:

    • A severe form of depression that occurs after childbirth. It can cause significant emotional distress, making it difficult for the mother to care for herself or her baby.

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders involve persistent disturbances in a person's emotional state. Depression is one type of mood disorder, but there are other conditions within this category as well.

Common Types of Mood Disorders:

  1. Bipolar Disorder:

    • As mentioned, bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood changes can significantly impact a person’s behavior, relationships, and ability to function.

  2. Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia):

    • A milder form of bipolar disorder characterized by periods of hypomanic symptoms (elevated mood) and depressive symptoms that don't meet the full criteria for mania or major depression. These mood swings can last for years and affect day-to-day functioning.

  3. Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD):

    • Primarily diagnosed in children, DMDD involves severe temper outbursts that are out of proportion to the situation and a consistently irritable or angry mood. These symptoms must be present for at least 12 months and can cause significant social and academic problems.

Causes of Depression & Mood Disorders

The exact cause of mood disorders is complex and often involves a combination of factors:

  • Biological: Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine) play a major role in regulating mood. Genetic factors can also contribute, as a family history of mood disorders increases the risk.

  • Psychological: Stress, trauma, and adverse life events can trigger or worsen mood disorders. People with low self-esteem or negative thinking patterns may also be more vulnerable.

  • Environmental: Difficult life circumstances, such as the loss of a loved one, financial problems, or relationship issues, can be significant triggers.

  • Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, the postpartum period, or menopause, can contribute to mood disorders.

Treatment Options

Treatment for depression and mood disorders typically involves a combination of approaches:

  • Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy are effective in helping individuals understand the roots of their mood disorder and develop coping strategies.

  • Medication: Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs) and mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium) are often prescribed. For bipolar disorder, mood stabilizers and sometimes antipsychotic medications are used to manage manic or hypomanic episodes.

  • Lifestyle changes: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, enough sleep, and stress management techniques like mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can help stabilize mood.

Support groups: Connecting with others who experience similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice.

When to Seek Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in daily activities, it's important to seek help from a mental health professional. Untreated depression and mood disorders can have significant effects on one's quality of life, but with the right treatment, people can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.