Depression

An estimated 16.2 million adults in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode in 2016 according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. This number represented 6.7% of all U.S. adults.

What is Depression?

Major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. For some individuals, major depression can result in severe impairments that interfere with or limit one’s ability to carry out major life activities. Research suggests that depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Although different individuals experience different symptoms of depression, some of these symptoms include:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies or activities
• Decreased energy, fatigue, or being “slowed down”
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Appetite and/or weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts
• Restlessness or irritability
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment

Two of the most common forms of depression include Major Depressive Disorder and Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia). Major Depressive Disorder is when an individual experiences depressive symptoms, as listed above, nearly every day for two weeks that interfere with one’s life. An individual may experience one of these depressive episodes during their life or experience multiple episodes throughout their life. Dysthymia is diagnosed after an individual experiences depressive symptoms for two years. An individual with dysthymia may experience major depressive episodes as well as periods of time with less severe symptoms.  

What is the Treatment for Depression?

While the severity of depression can vary in each individual, it is important that an individual talk with a doctor or a psychotherapist to discuss the symptoms they’re experiencing. Depression can be treated with medication or psychotherapy or a combination of both of these. There are a number of evidence-based therapy to address depressive symptoms which include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (AFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Behavioral Activation. Our clinicians at OakHeart are proud to offer these evidence-based treatment options for depression. For questions, please call 630-570-0050.