Depression is a mental health disorder that comes with persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It can cause a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms, such as changes in appetite and sleep patterns, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Depression can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

How do I know if I’m depressed?

There are several signs and symptoms that may indicate that someone is experiencing depression. These can include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed

• Changes in appetite and sleep patterns, such as difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much

• Fatigue or loss of energy

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions

• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

• Thoughts of death or suicide

What is the treatment for depression?

Therapists at Therapy Unlocked treat depressive disorders with a variety of these approaches and more:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) - It aims to help people change the way they think and behave in order to reduce feelings of depression.

• Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) - A mindfulness based therapy that helps you work on staying focused on the moment and accept feelings and thoughts without judgment.

• Eye Movement Desensitization Repossessing (EMDR) - This therapy approach uses a technique that involves ‘bilateral stimulation’ to free you from emotional pain from disturbing memories that may be triggering your depression.

• Medication Management - Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, although the choice of medication will depend on the specific condition and the individual person.

It is important to note that everyone may experience these symptoms differently, and the severity of symptoms can vary.

I think I have depression, what now?

If think you are experiencing several of the symptoms listed above on a consistent basis, and they are interfering with your ability to function in your daily life, reach out to us at Therapy Unlocked to set up an appointment. You can call us at 512-993-2995 or schedule an appointment online. One of our therapists can help you determine if you may be experiencing depression, and provide you with appropriate treatment options.