Depression Treatment Q&A

Depression is a disease with no clear cause that can occur for various reasons. While some individuals experience a bout of depression when dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event such as the loss of a loved one, others may experience feelings of overwhelming and consistent depression with no obvious cause.

Genetics are thought to play a part in the development of depression as a family history of the condition may lend itself toward its development. Some individuals experience depression alongside other conditions, such as a serious chronic condition.

Personal issues and social isolation, sometimes in conjunction with other mental health conditions such as social anxiety, are sometimes responsible for the onset of depression. Elderly individuals are also at high risk of depression especially when they live a life of isolation. Substance misuse can also correlate to an increased likelihood of depression.  Given the myriad of potential causes, treatment interventions as provided by the specialists at Gold Counseling will be tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

There is nothing unusual about experiencing a bout of sadness from time to time or just generally feeling down, however, depression is more than that. Depression typically manifests as persistent feelings like this, whether they be constant or intermittent, and the symptoms are often so severe they can get in the way of day-to-day life.

Individuals experiencing depression may exhibit isolative behaviors, have difficulty sleeping, lose interest in things they usually enjoy, experience changes in appetite, feel constantly fatigued, and more. Individuals suffering from depression may also be more prone to substance use and even substance misuse.

There is an overlap between many of the symptoms of depression and the potential triggers of depression. This overlap creates a vicious cycle that can perpetuate the depression and make it increasingly difficult for individuals to function.

For instance, an individual with depression may misuse substances, an act which in itself can trigger depression. Depression can present in many different ways and can interfere with work, social relationships, school, and general wellness.

In addition to inducing a pervasive sense of sadness, depression at all levels can induce feelings of hopelessness. When an individual has mild depression, these emotions can persist for days, despite not reaching the severity of profound depressive states they may disrupt your regular activities. Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, represents the most severe manifestation of this condition. A diagnosis of major depressive disorder is established when you’ve experienced a continuous state of depression for at least two weeks, accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of interest, alterations in eating and sleeping patterns, and more.

Even in cases of mild depression, seeking treatment is often imperative, as it can progress into more severe forms. The significance of treating severe depression cannot be overstated, as it can lead to a wide range of disruptions in one’s life and detrimental consequences, including the contemplation of suicide.

How long depressive episodes last varies depending on the type of depression the patient is experiencing. Patients diagnosed with persistent depressive disorder tend to experience symptoms most days a week for two years. When it comes to major depressive disorder identifying an average duration is more difficult as patient experiences vary drastically.

To meet the diagnostic criteria, however, depressive episodes must last for a minimum of two weeks. Depressive episodes can last for months to years at a time depending on their severity, health and lifestyle factors, and treatment. Seeking out treatment for a depressive episode from the specialists at Gold Counseling can have a significantly positive impact on the condition.

Depression treatment is available at Gold Counseling. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Riverdale UT, Washington Terrace UT, Clinton UT, Kaysville UT, Clearfield UT, Farmington UT, Draper UT, Riverton UT, Sandy UT, St. George UT, Bloomington UT, Santa Clara UT, and surrounding areas.