DEPRESSION
Depression has the power to make things feel impossible.
Depression is among the most common mental health issues – and it’s serious. The severity of depressive symptoms differs person to person, ranging from mild to severe. Some individuals are only aware of physical signs and symptoms and may believe that their primary concern is a medical issue.
When it comes to frequency of symptoms, for some people depression may last for a few weeks; while for others, it may last a few months or even a number of years. Depression can also come and go in longer or shorter bouts across the lifespan. Many individuals who struggle with depression may also experience anxiety.
When depression is difficult to manage, things can be experienced as impossible. Commonly stated phrases that reflect this experience include: “I just couldn’t get out of bed today,” “I won’t be able to function at work,” and “No one wants me around…I’m a downer.”
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Loss of energy/fatigue
- Difficulties with falling and/or staying asleep
- Muscle tension/body aches
- Headaches
- Stomach discomfort
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Dizziness/lightheadedness
- Menstrual cycle changes
- Loss of sex drive and/or sexual problems
- Feeling depressed/down/sad/empty/numb
- Irritability
- Loss of pleasure/energy/motivation
- Guilt/shame/self-blame
- Low self-esteem
- Helplessness
- Worthlessness
- Hopelessness
- Anxiety
- Suicidal ideation
- Thoughts of self -harm
- Rumination
- Negative and/or distorted thinking
- Difficulty with concentration
- Difficulty with memory
- Distractibility/forgetfulness
- Impaired decision-making
- Withdrawal from others
- Disconnection/tension in relationships
- Lost work productivity
- Neglecting hobbies/interests
Depression isn’t the same as grief and sadness.
While depression and grief have similar symptoms, grief symptoms typically lessen over time and occur in waves due to reminders of the loss. Sadness, too, is more short-lived and can lessen in severity with successful use of coping strategies such as crying, talking out feelings, and reframing negative thoughts. In contrast to grief and sadness, depression tends to be more pervasive and persistent. There are many types of depression.
Below are general descriptions of two of the most common types:
- Major depressive disorder: Persistent feelings of sadness, feeling down, and/or having a loss of interest, accompanied by a range of symptoms (see symptom list above) that last two weeks or longer.
(For information on postpartum depression, see our page on pregnancy and postpartum) - Persistent depressive disorder: Persistent feelings of sadness, feeling down, and/or having a loss of interest, accompanied by a range of symptoms (see symptom list above) that last two years or longer.
It is important to work with a trained professional who can accurately diagnose and treat depressive disorders, as well as other issues (such as anxiety) that may occur simultaneously.
Counseling and therapy at Wellness Grove…
Our in-person (outpatient) counseling services are offered in Canton OH (near Akron, North Canton, and Massillon). We also offer telemental health sessions to all Ohio residents.
Wellness Grove
