What is Depression? Why Does it Happen? What Can Help?
There are a lot of misconceptions about depression out there. You may hear in passing from friends or family that they feel depressed after going through one stressful event, or that a story they hear is “depressing” but what does depression really mean or entail? What does it really mean to experience depression and why does it happen? Keep reading to learn more about depression. If you believe you might have depression, reach out to us to see if services could be appropriate for you.
What is Depression?
There are different types of depression and different things can cause depression. Some examples of depression include Major Depressive Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Atypical Depression, and Prenatal Depression. For the purpose of this blog we will focus on one of the most common types (Major Depressive Disorder).
Causes?
There is not just one cause of depression but multiple things that could pose as risk factors for depression to develop in someone. Some of the factors include genetics, imbalances of chemicals in the brain, prolonged exposure to stress, and trauma. Some believe that depression could be a form of freeze response that can happen in response to trauma as a way for the body to protect itself from experiencing painful emotions. Depression can be debilitating nonetheless for those that experience it. Sometimes those that develop depression may also try to find ways to cope that are not healthy that may include increased drinking, or smoking. This can be problematic because adding a substance when experiencing depression symptoms over time makes symptoms of depression worse.
Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder:
We understand some factors that can possibly cause depression to develop. We know that with Major Depressive Disorder that symptoms may have to be present for a few months to be diagnosed. You can still experience depression over a shorter period of time but it may instead fall under an adjustment disorder. If you are curious about a depression diagnosis, always consult with a mental health counselor or professional. This section is not a replacement for diagnosis but instead to help get more familiar with some depression symptoms.
More fatigued and lacking energy
Changes in appetite
Difficulties getting to sleep or staying asleep
Feeling less motivated and loss of pleasure in things.
Difficulty concentrating on tasks.
Feeling more sadness or discontent
If you feel like you relate to any of these symptoms know that you are not alone and at Inward Counseling we help people that struggle with depression get to feeling better and more hopeful. Take this opportunity to reach out to us to see if we can help you.
What Can Help?
In addition to meeting with a mental health counselor there are some other things that can help with someone that experiences symptoms. Some include incorporating mindfulness meditation, journaling, examining daily routine, and reaching out to friends or family. Depression can make us feel more isolated and the negative thoughts that come with depression can keep us feeling stuck. If you are experiencing symptoms I encourage you to try small steps starting out towards the change that you are looking to find. Things take time and our thoughts and feelings change over time as well. There is hope that you can feel better if you reach out for help and try incorporating some new things into your life. If you or someone you love is experiencing life threatening thoughts or intentions please reach out to crisis intervention resources. 988 is a crisis mental health line that can be reached via phone call or text and you will get connected to a mental health specialist that can help. Take care of yourself.