Depression, or Depressive Disorder, is more than a feeling of sadness or feeling down.
Depression is a brain condition that requires medical treatment. Without professional help, depression can shatter the lives of individuals living with the illness, as well as their families. Fortunately, depression is entirely treatable and with proper diagnosis and treatment, many individuals can and do recover.
“When you’re depressed you don’t control your thoughts, your thoughts control you. I wish people understood that.”
Depression can occur in episodes that last from a few months to several years when left untreated. While some individuals will experience only one episode of depression, most people have periodic episodes over their lifetime.
According to NIMH, the National Institute of Mental Health, 7% of American adults - an estimated 16 million people - had at least one major depressive episode in the past year. Individuals of all racial, ethnic, socioeconomic backgrounds and age can have depression, but some groups can be more affected than others.
Signs and Symptoms
Depression can manifest differently in different people, but for most, it affects their ability to go to work, attend school, maintain important relationships and enjoy life. Some of the signs and symptoms to watch for in yourself or others include:
Changes in sleep
Changes in appetite
Lack of concentration
Loss of energy
Lack of interest in activities
Hopelessness or guilty thoughts
Changes in movement (less activity or agitation)
Physical aches and pains
Suicidal thoughts
When to get help
Everyone feels down every now and then, but when is your depression at a point that you need professional help? A good rule of thumb is if your depressive symptoms last longer than two weeks or are interfering with your ability to function in your regular life, or it is causing you to contemplate or plan suicide, then it is time for you to contact a mental health professional as soon as possible. If you are feeling suicidal and are not safe, then bypass making an appointment, and call (281) 383-9366.
How we can help
At The Woodlands Psychiatry and Counseling, we are committed to providing support for individuals with depression by providing the most comprehensive whole body mental health rehabilitation services available.
Our program offers a safe and compassionate environment for individuals in need of immediate care, with a focus individualized holistic mental health services and, upon discharge, an ongoing wellness plan.
