Depression

Depression is a common condition that affects our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 17.3 million adults in the United States have at least one major depressive episode in a year. Depression symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can negatively impact a person’s functioning at work, home, and in relationships.

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While a diagnosis of a depressive disorder requires meeting specific criteria, a person may experience fewer symptoms that may still cause distress.

Symptoms may include:

Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others)
Sleeping too little or not enough
Low energy or increased fatigue
Feeling of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
Change in appetite
Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression symptoms may be experienced during specific life events, such as following the loss of a loved one, during a divorce, or after the birth of a child. These, while they may be identified as situational depression -not meeting actual diagnosis of Major Depression, can still impair well being to the extent of needing treatment.

Treatment of Depression

Fortunately, although depression is prevalent, it is quite responsive to treatment with the American Psychiatry Association estimating that 80-90% of people respond well to treatment and experience a decrease in symptoms. Treatment can include therapy and/or medication.

After ruling out any medical conditions that might contribute to depressive symptoms, medication can be considered via a primary health care professional or a psychiatrist.

The most common and most successful psychotherapy for treating depression is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

CBT can help a person to recognize and change problematic thinking and can teach effective coping strategies to improve overall mood and functioning. Depending on the underlying origins of depression symptoms, other helpful therapies may include Mindfulness, Interpersonal therapy, or Psychodynamic therapy.

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