Depression Treatment Altamonte Springs, FL

Signs and Types of Depression

There are specific symptoms that determine whether a person is depressed or experiencing normal feelings of sadness. According to the DSM-5, a diagnostic manual for treating mental disorders established by the American Psychiatric Association, a person may have depression if they experience five or more of the following symptoms for at least two weeks:

• Depressed mood for a majority of the day
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Feeling tired or having a lack of energy almost every day
• Feeling worthless or guilty nearly every day
• Hopelessness or pessimism
• Losing or gaining weight
• No interest or pleasure in many activities
• Restlessness or slowing down
• Sleeping too much or too little every day

Not every person with depression will experience every symptom. Some people may only experience a few symptoms, while others may experience many. Fortunately, many people can overcome depression with the proper diagnosis and treatment. It is important to understand that depression is not the same as feelings of sadness or grief that people may experience throughout their lives.

It is normal and healthy for people to experience sadness or grief in response to certain situations, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. While a person can experience both grief and depression simultaneously, distinguishing between the two is necessary for patients to get the right treatment. Anyone experiencing symptoms of depression can benefit from working with a professional to start addressing their mental health needs.

Possible Causes and Risk Factors of Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America states that depression affects around 40 million adults in the United States, or 18.1% of the population each year. While a person can have depression at any age, it often begins in adulthood. Some risk factors for depression may include a family history of depression, major life changes, stress or trauma, and certain illnesses or medications.

The exact cause of depression is not yet known. According to current research, a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors may play a role in causing depression. For example, a 2018 study found significant structural differences in the frontal lobe, thalamus, striatum, parietal lobe, and hippocampus of people with depression. Additionally, a person’s brain chemistry may increase their risk for depression if the neurotransmitters or chemicals in the brain are not functioning normally. Changes in hormone levels from pregnancy, menopause, or other conditions can also cause symptoms of depression.

Depression Treatment Options

Depression is one of the most treatable mental disorders. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 80-90% of people with depression will eventually respond positively to treatment. There are many effective treatments and strategies to help people cope and overcome this disorder. Working with a mental health professional gives people the information, support, and personalized treatment they need to relieve their symptoms. The treatment a patient will receive depends on the type of depression and the severity of their symptoms.

One or more treatment methods may be necessary. Two of the most common depression treatments are treatment and medication. Since there are many types of antidepressants, patients may need to try a few before finding the one that works best for them. In some cases, combining two antidepressants or an additional type of medication, such as an anti-anxiety medication or mood stabilizer, is necessary to help an antidepressant work. People with depression may also engage in treatment with a mental health professional. During these treatment sessions, patients will regularly talk with a therapist about their depression and other concerns to help treat their symptoms.

As with medication, there are various treatment methods available, from cognitive behavioral treatment to talk treatment. A combination of antidepressant medications and treatment is effective for many people. However, people may benefit from trying other treatments such as electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) when medication is ineffective. ECT is a therapeutic option that stimulates the brain by passing electric currents through the brain to help neurotransmitters work more effectively. TMS involves sending magnetic pulses through the brain to stimulate the nerve cells that regulate a person’s mood.

What To Expect From Depression Treatment

Depression treatment will vary for each person. There is no one size fits all approach, and what works for one person may not work for another. Our team plans an appropriate treatment based on the patient’s specific symptoms, diagnosis, and preferences. Patients undergoing treatment can expect to work with a therapist who will help them develop strategies to identify and avoid any triggers that worsen their depression. A therapist can also help patients with depression develop healthy coping mechanisms for when they experience a trigger.

Talk treatment can help people with temporary to mild depression, while those with severe depression may need additional medication. Patients should feel comfortable and safe speaking to their therapist. Discussing their feelings and overall treatment plan openly during treatment sessions allows therapists to make changes as needed. A patient may need to meet with several therapists to find the one that works best for their needs. People taking antidepressants may take their medication for a short period or long-term, depending on their needs. Our team takes various factors into account before prescribing any medication to a patient.

Some of the factors to consider include the possible side effects, cost, possible drug interactions, and the patient’s current health concerns and symptoms. When first starting depression treatment, it can be easy to get discouraged and want to stop. People should expect to undergo a few months of treatment before noticing improvements. It can take antidepressants six to eight weeks to start taking effect. Remaining dedicated to a treatment plan is crucial for optimal treatment results. Patients should not stop treatment without consulting their doctor or therapist first. Finding the right treatment plan is often a process of trial and error. If one treatment does not work, it is okay to move on and try others.