Dealing with Depression & Major Depressive Disorders
"Dr. Brown’s help and medical expertise for my clinical depression for the last 11 months has changed my life. He helped me make it through my medical treatments for Hepatitis and he was always available to me when I needed urgent care during this difficult period. I no longer have a stigma about Psychiatry. I have awakened to life!" - M.W.
Battling depression can often feel like a Sisyphean task - struggling to push a heavy boulder up mountains, only to see it fall tumbling back downwards - leaving you feeling discouraged, hopeless, and ultimately powerless. Daily activities become increasingly overwhelming, and it can be difficult to summon the motivation to perform the most basic of tasks - from getting out of bed in the morning, to simply making a cup of coffee. You may find yourself unable to enjoy time with your family and friends, and no longer take any pleasure from activities you were once passionate about.
You are not alone; major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. According to the most recent data from the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 15.7 million adults battle at least one depressive episode each year (which amounts to a staggering 6.7% of the adult population in the United States).
You are not alone; major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. According to the most recent data from the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 15.7 million adults battle at least one depressive episode each year (which amounts to a staggering 6.7% of the adult population in the United States).
Recognizing Signs & Symptoms
If you identify with several of the following signs or symptoms, you may be suffering from depression and should consider seeking professional help.
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness.
- Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports.
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much.
- Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort.
- Changes in appetite — often reduced appetite and weight loss, but increased cravings for food and weight gain in some people.
- Anxiety, agitation or restlessness.
- Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or blaming yourself for things that aren't your responsibility.
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things.
- Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide.
- Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches.
Source: Mayo Clinic
Getting Help
It takes a great deal bravery to admit that you are struggling, and an incredible amount of courage to ask for help. The common stigma associated with mental illness often prevents us from reaching out, but seeking professional help is the first step on your journey to health, wellness, and a life free from depression.
Contact The Center for the Treatment of Mood Disorders today and let us help you put together a treatment plan to take back your life - one step at a time.
Contact The Center for the Treatment of Mood Disorders today and let us help you put together a treatment plan to take back your life - one step at a time.