Depression Therapy in Fort Lauderdale, FL—Broward Therapy for Depression
Approximately 16 million people in the US and 350 million people worldwide suffer with major depression each year. It can hit someone out of nowhere, linger in and out, or stick around for years. In any which case, depression is debilitating, as it is characterized by a deep level of despair and a diminished interest (or pleasure) in daily activities. Those with depression can experience additional harmful symptoms including fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty sleeping, and suicidal thoughts.
“Mental pain is less dramatic than physical pain, but it is more common and also harder to bear. The frequent attempt to conceal mental pain increases the burden: it is easier to say ‘My tooth is aching,’ than to say, ‘My heart is broken.’” –C.S. Lewis, The Problem of Pain
Experiencing depression, especially when you first develop symptoms, can be extremely frightening and confusing. The good news, though, is that depression is completely treatable and the majority of individuals who develop depression will recover fully. If you’re reading this right now and you think that you might be depressed, reach out to Thriveworks Fort Lauderdale in Broward County, FL. We have depression therapists and psychologists on staff who can help you learn to manage your symptoms, identify why you might be depressed, and ultimately get back to a happier you. We’re ready when you are. Call us today at (754) 400-5514 to schedule your appointment.
What Symptoms Accompany Depression?
A depression diagnosis depends on a self-report of symptoms. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), an individual must experience at least five of the following symptoms in the same two-week period for a depression diagnosis:
- Depressed mood, the majority of each day, as demonstrated by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, emptiness, or observation of others
- Lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities, nearly every day
- Significant weight or appetite changes
- Insomnia or hypersomnia, nearly every day
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Irritability
- Diminished ability to think straight or make decisions
- Recurrent thoughts about death
If you are exhibiting any combination of the above symptoms, it’s important that you meet with a medical professional. A depression therapist or psychologist at Thriveworks Fort Lauderdale in Broward County, FL can help you better manage these symptoms and lessen their harmful effects.
Why Am I Depressed? Causes of Depression
There is not one central cause of depression. Instead, there are multiple factors that can contribute to depression. For example:
- Environment: An individual’s environment can play a crucial role in the development of depression. For example, a traumatic event—such as the loss of a loved one—can leave one reeling and he or she can go on to feel depressed and experience other symptoms of the disorder.
- Genetics: Your genetics can play a role in the development of depression, too. If your parents or your siblings struggle with depression, your risk of experiencing depression is two or three times greater.
- Temperament: It’s also possible for depression to stem from an individual’s negative affectivity (NA), which refers to how one experiences negative emotions. In other words, someone who doesn’t cope well with unpleasant emotions might be at a greater risk of feeling depressed.
While the above factors may play a role in the development of depression, it’s important to know that sometimes there is no good explanation for why one feels depressed. It’s also important to know that self-care can go a long way. So, in addition to working with a depression therapist or psychologist to manage your symptoms and get back to a happier, healthier you, practice self-care. Prioritize physical activity, time with loved ones, and other activities that make you feel good.
Schedule Depression Therapy at Thriveworks Fort Lauderdale
Are you in need of Broward therapy for depression? If you think you might be depressed, reach out to Thriveworks Fort Lauderdale in Broward County. We have depression therapists and psychologists on staff who are leaders in their field and specialize in helping people to manage their depression. These professionals have the skills, training, and experience to change your life for the better. If you think that you could find value in depression therapy, give Thriveworks Fort Lauderdale in Broward County a call at (754) 400-5514. Our therapists and psychologists are looking forward to meeting you and assisting you on this journey.
