Depression
Signs and Symptoms of Depression and Depression Related Disorders:
Fatigue
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness
Pessimism and hopelessness
Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much
Crankiness or irritability, Anger Outbursts
Restlessness, small task can fell overwhelming or require a lot of energy
Trouble concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
Loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
Overeating and/or weight gain; or appetite loss and/or weight loss without trying
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
Slowed thinking, speech, or movement
Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts
Physical Pains or Gastrointestinal Issues (GI) that don't get better, even with treatment
Some Types of Depression:
Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood - Depressive symptoms that begin three months after an identifiable stressor, which impact function and coping.
Seasonal Affective Disorder - The onset of depression symptoms typically occur in the winter. Individuals may experience social withdraw, increased sleep, and weight gain. Symptoms typically improve in the spring/summer and can return annually.
Major Depressive Disorder - Depressive symptoms last for a least two weeks at a time. And individual experiences at least 5 depression symptoms, one of which is depressed mood.
Persistent Depressive Disorder - Depressive symptoms last for a period of two years
Postpartum Depression - Depression symptoms during pregnancy or after deliver, lasting more than 2 weeks postpartum. Depression symptoms of exhaustion, extreme sadness, and anxiety can impact a new mom's ability to complete daily activities for themselves and their children.
Treatment Strategies:
Cognitive Therapy - Identification and challenging of thought patterns that impact mood.
Behavior Therapy - Implementation of daily, weekly, and monthly goals to support prosocial behavior patterns and growth toward short and long term goals.
Transform boundaries - Supporting the individual to identify and address interpersonal relationships that impact functioning and coping.
Treatment Screening Tools:
DASS 21
PHQ9
PCL-C
Additional Treatment Options:
Group Therapy - A treatment model where a qualified provider supports individuals experiencing similar presenting concerns to explore their circumstances and provide support.
Medication Management - A method of treatment administered by a licensed provider, which can help to reduce symptoms. Therapy is recommended for individuals utilizing medication for a mental health disorder