NEED A DEPRESSION THERAPIST IN MIAMI?
We have depression psychiatrists who can help.
WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
Everyone has experienced the feeling of being “down” or sad, but feelings such as these typically pass after a short period of time. However, for individuals with depression (also referred to as clinical depression or depressive disorder), these symptoms can persist for weeks, months, or even years.
Depression is a serious mood disorder that causes a broad range of debilitating symptoms, impacting an individual’s ability to engage in everyday life and relationships. The symptoms of depressions can affect the way a person feels both physically and emotionally, impacting their mental state and daily activities.
Generally, depression can be categorized into one of two forms:
- Major depression involves symptoms that exist most of the day, for nearly every day within a period of two weeks or more. An episode of major depression may occur as a singular life event, but they are usually a recurring experience throughout a person’s life.
- Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) is characterized by depressive symptoms that persist for at least two years. For a person with persistent depressive disorder, there may be episodes of less severe symptoms combined with more difficult periods.
In addition to the general forms of depression listed above, there are also certain types that may develop under certain circumstances, such as:
- Perinatal depression: Depression during pregnancy
- Postpartum depression: Depression after delivering a baby
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Depression that may come and go with the seasons, usually bringing symptoms in late fall/early winter and improving during spring/summer
- Psychotic depression: Severe depression in combination with psychosis, including delusions or hallucinations
COMMON SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
Although depression disorders are most commonly associated with feelings of sadness, they are actually far more complex than that.
Each individual with depression may experience varying combinations of symptoms, such as:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness
- Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
- Deep pessimism
- Feelings of guilt
- Loss of interest in or enjoyment of activities and hobbies
- Lack of energy, chronic fatigue, or feeling “slow”
- Difficulty making decisions or concentrating
- Forgetfulness
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Aches or pains
- Headaches
- Digestive issues
Because depression affects everyone differently, seeking help is incredibly important. Children, teens, adults, and the elderly can all experience depression. However, there are many extremely effective treatment options that can make a massive difference in your quality of life.
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF DEPRESSION
Elevate Psychiatry can help diagnose and treat a broad range of depressive disorders, putting a happier and more fulfilled life within reach. Our advice, diagnosis, or treatment will be shaped by your unique experiences, symptoms, and goals, ensuring that you have the best chance for success.
Treatment for depression may include:
