According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, 18.5% of American adults in any given 2-week period in 2019 experienced depressive symptoms.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mental illness characterized by persistent sadness or irritability. It is frequently accompanied by a slew of somatic and cognitive signs and symptoms, including fatigue, apathy, sleep problems, loss of appetite, loss of engagement; low self-esteem or hopelessness; trouble concentrating or making decisions; and recurring thoughts of suicide or death.
Depression symptoms may include:
- Having a negative or hopeless attitude
- Feeling guilty or unworthy
- Loss of enjoyment or interest in past interests, particularly those you
formerly enjoyed - Irritation
- Lowered energy or exhaustion
- Problems with memory or concentration
- Decision-making issues
- Sleeping issues, such as excessive snoozing or waking up early
than usual - Anxiousness
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Unexpected aches, pains, digestive problems, or cramps
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
Depression Screening and Diagnosis
Doctors frequently use a series of questions to diagnose depression in patients, often about daily behaviors and lifestyle habits. These screenings can take place during a routine checkup, as well as during pregnancy and postpartum visits. A physical exam, lab tests, and questions about family history may be used to rule out other conditions that can cause depression in order to make a proper depression diagnosis.
Depression is treated on an individual basis with medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two. We offer our Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) program at Open Arms Life Center, which combines the concepts of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness principles to help prevent recurrent episodes of depression. Furthermore, we can assist you in understanding the nature of your mind and body, allowing you to respond and aid in reducing suffering. This clinic teaches patients both formal and informal practices that help them incorporate a mindful attitude into their daily lives.
In addition, your doctor may advise you to undergo electroconvulsive therapy. (ECT) and other brain stimulation therapies are effective treatments for depression that are more severe.
Other at-home treatment options that can combat the effects of depression include:
- Working out and staying active
- Socializing with the people you adore and respect
- Allowing others to assist you
- Creating reasonable objectives, such as anticipating an improvement in mood
gradually rather than instantly - Delaying making crucial decisions
- Maintaining one’s own education regarding depression
If you are depressed, the caring and compassionate staff at Open Arms Life Center is here to help you feel like yourself again. We are with you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment.
It’s natural to feel different after a traumatic event. Within a few weeks, most people begin to feel better. If your symptoms persist, you may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Our team at Open Arms Life Center provides a secure, confidential, and caring environment.
Compassionate PTSD treatment with treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Open Arms Life Center can assist you if you are suffering from PTSD. Getting mental health care from an Open Arms Life Center professional can help you on your way.
Let us know about your psychiatric-related inquiries. Please send us a message to get started.