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Depression affects millions of people in the United States every year, including children and teens. Though very common, depression is treatable. At Vibrant Integrative Psychiatry in Gurnee, Illinois, Ilya M. Ray, RN, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, and the team offer diagnoses and treatments for people suffering from depression. To schedule a consultation for depression, call Vibrant Integrative Psychiatry or book one online today.
What is major depression?
Depression, or major depression, is a mood disorder Major depression is often characterized by sadness, fatigue, and loss of interest in one’s normal activities. There are other forms of depression that develop under various circumstances but cause similar symptoms, including:
Depression is very common and develops from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. You can develop depression at any age, though it’s more common in adults.
Depression can also co-occur with other serious health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
What are the symptoms of major depression?
Depression symptoms vary and generally last most of the day for two or more weeks. Common depression symptoms include:
There are plenty of times that someone might experience any of these symptoms without having major depression—maybe after a significant loss, or while moving houses or changing jobs. These situations can be depressing. It is perfectly normal to grieve, become exhausted, or pause your activities to reorient yourself. In these circumstances, someone might say they’re “feeling down” or “feeling depressed”. Most people can expect to feel better after a short period of mourning, rest, or having time to adjust.
How is major depression treated?
Someone with major depression may not feel better when stressors are removed, or when time has passed. Major depression has affected people at every stage of life, from every walk of life. We think it’s important to consider that people with major depressive disorder may not feel what they would call “sad”, or they may not perceive “losing interest” in their normal activities. They might not feel anything at all, or they may not remember ever having enjoyed their daily lives. Signs and symptoms may have been described or explained in different ways by different groups of people, just as the diagnostic language shifts with each generation of the DSM to fit the culture and experiences of the people who will use it. Depression is treatable, even in the most severe cases. Treatment is typically more effective when initiated early. Treatment for depression may include:
Many people with depression benefit from antidepressants. These medications work by improving how your brain uses the neurotransmitters that control mood and stress. Antidepressants take up to four weeks to work, and finding the right medication to manage your mental health condition takes time. You don’t have to take antidepressants for the rest of your life. However, you should never abruptly stop taking antidepressants because they can cause withdrawal symptoms and your depression can return. Your practitioner helps you taper your antidepressant when appropriate.
In addition to medication, people with depression also benefit from psychotherapy. There are many types of psychotherapy that improve depression, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and problem-solving therapy.
When it’s appropriate, Vibrant Integrative Psychiatry team members prescribe anti-anxiety medication. They might also prescribe medication for other mental conditions affecting you, like antidepressants for depression.
Major depression is a life altering condition. You know your life, and the way you tell your story is the way we want to hear it. If you feel like something is not right, come talk to us. To schedule your appointment for depression, call Vibrant Integrative Psychiatry today.
