Learning More About Depression: Can It Help?

The more you learn and know about depression the better able you are to address your own symptoms. If you have been diagnosed with depression it’s likely that you have questions about it. That is natural and it is good to learn more. Be aware of where you are getting your information as not all sources are created equal. It is generally best to consult with a specialist as well. If you are experiencing depressive symptoms a licensed therapist can help.

Symptoms of Depression

While there are specific symptoms of depression, “diagnostic criteria’ necessary to meet a diagnosis, symptoms can feel different for everyone. The diagnostic symptoms for depression include the following:

  • Chronic sad or irritable mood
  • Loss of enjoyment in things you previously enjoyed
  • Fatigue
  • Sleep disturbance/changes such as sleeping too much or not enough
  • Appetite changes, eating too much or not enough that may lead to significant weight gain or loss
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Feelings of worthlessness
  • Feeling slowed down or sped up
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

If you experience any of the above symptoms for two weeks or more you may be experiencing a depressive episode. It can be helpful to talk with your doctor and a therapist about your symptoms and find a treatment plan that is right for you.

Additional Facts to Know about Depression 

  • Depression and chronic disorders are linked. People with chronic pain and other chronic disorders have higher risks for depression, and vice versa. Studies show that the most common complication of many medical conditions is depression, just as depression can leave you more susceptible to a number of physical conditions.
  • Depressive symptoms can lead you to isolating yourself from those closest to you. It is hard to want to participate in things you used to enjoy when you are depressed.
  • When you feel depressed you may be less willing to participate in treatment causing your symptoms to worsen. Depression can be self-feeding in this way. Be mindful of this and try to stay engaged in treatment that has been recommended, particularly therapy and medication management.
  • It can affect your sleep in various ways – it can either cause insomnia or hypersomnia. Insomnia can lead to sleep deprivation, having trouble falling and staying asleep. Hypersomnia or oversleeping, unfortunately, cannot increase your level of energy. You will most likely still feel tired the next day. Treating sleep issues with medications is common, therapy can also be very effective.
  • Depression and its complications can be prevented from becoming worse with treatment. Like any other emotional condition, its outlook can only improve with treatment. Counseling has been shown to be effective in treating depression. There are many approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy that can be utilized to help you find remission.
  • Depression may require medication management to improve. The more you know about your symptoms and what you need the better. 

Living with depression can be very challenging. It can have many complications affecting you and your loved ones. You deserve to find relief and live your life as you’d like. Connect with a licensed counselor or therapist independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina Office.

When you find the therapist that is right for you, you are one step closer to remission. Call CCS today to get started!

 

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