What is Depression?

Depression is a mental health challenge that is recognized for persistent feelings of hopelessness, a low mood in person’s life, and general sadness. There are a few different forms of depression; however, one of the main forms is Major Depressive Disorder.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is explained by the Diagnostical Statistical Manual Edition Five (DSM-5) as being recognized by a person having a low level of energy resulting in a depressed mood and/or losing interest or pleasure in various activities. This can greatly impact a person’s level of function and life as they may be unable to work or engage in social interactions that bring their life meaning. 

Other symptoms associated with MDD include: changes in appetite and sleep patterns; irritability; anger; suicidal thoughts; difficulties with concentration;  and/or observable restlessness or lethargy. These symptoms need to be present for a matter of two weeks or more and be a change from the person’s previous level of functioning. 

MDD does not present the same for every person. A thorough assessment by a trained therapist or provider near you can help determine if you experience MDD or something entirely different. For example, thyroid issues can cause changes in mood as well as substance and/or alcohol use. 

Can depression be treated with therapy?

Absolutely. Research has shown that depression responds to forms of therapy. Evidence-based depression therapies include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). There is also research showing the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and its benefits for depression. Sometimes, therapy is not enough to decrease depression symptoms and a medication from a psychiatrist or psychiatric physician assistant may be prescribed. 

Contact Us!

If you or someone you know struggles with depression please do not hesitate to reach out by phone 720-295-6703 or by filling out our Contact Form. We, here at Revitalize Mental Health, are here to support you or someone you know in their recovery process. We offer a free 20-minute consultation call to ensure goodness of fit before beginning therapy services.