Depression Therapy in Amherst, MA—Therapists and Counselors at Thriveworks
Often people find themselves repeatedly having difficulty getting out of bed in the morning. This is often coupled with ongoing struggles beginning and finishing basic tasks. There can be a general feeling of sadness that seems to persist during a variety of settings and in various settings. People with these symptoms can also have a history of these moods and behaviors in their family, so much so that growing up they accepted these traits as normal. But now these symptoms interfere in their daily lives, particularly in relationships. These may all be the signs of depression. Without effective therapy by a trained therapist or counselor, depression will worsen.
How Prevalent Is Depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder suffered by many individuals. Over 216 million people world-wide suffers from major depressive disorder according to a number of studies. The percentage of people who are affected by depression at one point in their life has been estimated to range from seven to twenty-one percent. Rates of depression are higher in the developed world actually four percent higher than in third world countries. Depression is the second highest cause of disability after only lower back pain. It occurs most frequently with people between the ages of 20 and 39. Women are twice as likely to be affected by depression as males though this statistic may be influenced by the fact that women are more likely than men to admit having symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is manifested in a variety of ways with a wide range of severity. Some people experience lethargy with difficulties getting motivated, particularly in the morning. Others continually find it difficult having enough energy to get through the day. These feelings of extreme fatigue may be paired with feelings of worthlessness, helplessness and hopelessness. Major depressive disorder is characterized by at least two weeks of significant decreases in motivation, loss of interest in previously preferred activities, self-degrading thoughts, and pain without a clear cause. It is possible that episodes of depression are separated by years. At times, symptoms can be greatly reduced or stop all together only to see the onset of symptoms recur. There may be a precipitating event that triggers the onset of symptoms. But this may not always be the case and symptoms may recur without warning. However, others may suffer from chronic depression with symptoms persisting over a long period of time. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not let them worsen but call an experienced Thriveworks depression therapist or counselor in Amherst at (413) 634-4805.
What Are the Results of Depressive Episodes?
Depression and the behavioral systems that are manifested from the disorder often have a negative effect on personal relationships, work performance, or and academic accomplishments if not treated with effective therapy. It can have a physical impact as well in areas such as sleeping, eating habits, and general health. A professional will assess whether or not a person has depression based on that person’s own report of symptoms and a careful in-person examination of the person’s mood, thoughts, and behavior.
What Are the Causes of Depression?
A number of factors can contribute or trigger depression. Major Depressive Disorder may be brought on by a combination of genetic, psychological, social and other triggers of distress. Recent studies seem to indicate that these triggers may also contribute to changes in brain function, including altered activity of certain neural circuits in the brain. An ongoing sense of melancholy and decreased energy level, which are characteristics of depression, can also lead to a wide range of behavioral and, even, medical symptoms such as:
- Sleep
- Appetite
- Energy level
- Concentration
- Daily behavior
- Poor self-image
Various forms of substance abuse, including alcoholism and drug addiction, can be traced to individuals’ attempts at self-medication.
How Is Depression Treated?
There are a number of treatment modalities, used individually or in combination, have been shown to be effective in reducing and, in some cases, eliminating symptoms. These treatments include medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic therapy and other forms of psychotherapy. Increasingly, research suggests these treatments may normalize brain changes associated with depression.
How Can I Get Help for Depression?
At Thriveworks Amherst, we have trained professionals with years of experience diagnosing and treating depression. They have had success enhancing and strengthening an individual’s self-image and helping them experience a renewed motivation to function both at work and at home. The clinicians, therapists and counselors at Thriveworks Amherst are also trained to deal with issues that may arise from depression such as substance abuse, marriage and family issues. Thriveworks Amherst clinicians, therapists, and counselors are also skilled at supporting those who may be affected by the depressive symptoms of their loved ones.
If you have had feelings of lethargy, hopelessness or worthlessness that has lingered for some time or you feel that you have been in a relationship with someone who has, and you need ways to support them, call Thriveworks-Amherst today. Thriveworks-Amherst counselors, therapists and counselors are leaders in their field, ready to work with you. There is no need to continue your search for answers to your problems. The counselors, therapists and counselors at Thriveworks Amherst are ready to partner with you to improve your life. Why delay any longer?
Call us at (413) 634-4805 and we will connect you with a provider who will fit your personality and needs. At Thriveworks Amherst, we often have appointments available for new clients within 24 hours. When you call us, we are ready to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses and begin the process of healing. So, if you are in need, please call today.
