Depression Therapy and Counseling in Virginia Beach, VA (Great Neck)—Therapists, Counselors
Are you experiencing symptoms of depression? Do you feel sad and generally uninterested in life on a regular basis? Depression is nothing short of frightening. And it’s important that you receive treatment, whether you have minor or major depression. So, if you are experiencing symptoms of depression or you feel depressed, reach out to Thriveworks Virginia Beach, VA (Great Neck).
“Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation. It means understanding that something is what it is and there’s got to be a way through it.” –Michael J. Fox
Here at Thriveworks Virginia Beach, VA (Great Neck), we have depression therapists and psychologists who specialize in helping people just like you. These professionals help their clients to manage depression symptoms, determine a potential cause of their depression, and ultimately live better. If you think you could benefit from working with one of our depression therapists, give us a call today at (757) 347-3155.
What Is Depression? Do I Have It?
Major depression is characterized by a state of despair and sudden loss of interest in day to day events as well as responsibilities. The diagnosis of major depression, or major depressive disorder, depends heavily on an individual’s recognition and report of their own symptoms. On that note, to be diagnosed with major depression, at least five symptoms below must be present for at least two weeks. Additionally, an individual must present a noticeable change in performance and activity. Consult the following:
- Depressed mood, most of the day and nearly every day. This is often seen as sadness, emptiness, and/or hopelessness.
- Diminished interest or desire in all (or most) activities. This may or may not be noticed by others.
- Significant weight loss or gain, a change of 5% or more in body weight in one month, or decrease/increase in appetite nearly every day.
- Insomnia or hypersomnia, or another disruption in sleep patterns, nearly every day.
- Changes in activity levels. For example, the individual stops going to the gym when they used to be an avid gym goer.
- Fatigue or loss of energy. For example, the individual doesn’t have energy to get out of bed.
- Feelings of worthlessness or self-hatred. For example, the individual says demeaning things like, “I never do anything right, I’m so useless.”
- Diminished ability to focus. The individual fails to concentrate at work or school.
- Suicidal thoughts and ideation.
If you are experiencing any combination of the above, it’s important that you meet with a medical professional who can evaluate your symptoms and offer treatment. Consider working with a depression therapist at Thriveworks Virginia Beach (Great Neck). Our depression therapists want to help you manage your depression symptoms and get back to your happy self.
What Causes Depression? Who Is at Risk?
Anything can lead to a depressive episode, from losing a loved one to getting fired from a job, breaking up with a significant other, or having a fight with a family member. There are also genetic factors involved. It is normal for an individual to enter a state of sadness after any one of these events (and others not listed); and sometimes, he or she experiences severe mental and emotional pain as a result.
It’s important to know and remember that being depressed is not the same as being sad, nor is it the same as grieving. There are distinct differences:
- When someone is grieving, they experience it in waves. The negative feelings are intertwined with positive emotions and memories. When someone is depressed, they experience despair and/or loss of interest constantly for at least two weeks.
- When an individual is grieving, they don’t usually take a hit to their self-esteem. When an individual is depressed, though, they experience feelings of self-loathing.
- Sometimes, the death of a loved one or the loss of a job brings on feelings of depression. When someone experiences grief and depression at the same time, their grief will typically last longer than it normally would.
Distinguishing between normal sadness, depression, and grief can help you to best manage your emotions and bounce back from these difficult challenges. In any case, if you think you could benefit from working with a therapist or counselor, reach out to Thriveworks Virginia Beach (Great Neck).
Schedule Depression Therapy at Thriveworks Virginia Beach (Great Neck)
If you’re ready to begin depression therapy, we’re ready to work with you. Give Thriveworks Virginia Beach (Great Neck) a call at (757) 347-3155 to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. We have flexible scheduling options, including extended hours on the weekends as well as in the evenings. We also accept most major insurance plans, to best serve all of our clients.
We look forward to hearing from you and getting to work. Our depression therapists and psychologists will do everything they can to help you manage your depression symptoms and live happier.
