Millions of people every year struggle with a psychiatric illness known as depression. Depression is specified as a mood disorder and is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness. Depression is also clinically referred to as major depressive disorder or clinical depression. The disorder affects how an individual feels, thinks, and behaves. Furthermore, depression can lead to a multitude of emotional and physical health problems. Thus, it is important to understand the signs and symptoms of depression so that if you are struggling you can get help from the right professionals.
Depression is more than just a bout of the blues or sadness. Individuals cannot simply “snap out of it”. Depression requires professional mental health treatment. It’s important to avoid feeling discouraged, or like your depression is a weakness. With the right medication and therapy depression can be treated and your symptoms can be relieved.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Depression?
Though depression may only happen once in a lifetime for some people, for most people they experience multiple episodes. During these depressive episodes, symptoms present themselves for most of the day and usually every day. The signs and symptoms of depression include:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emotional void, or hopelessness
- Angry outbursts, agitation, or frustration, even over small issues
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal day-to-day activities including hobbies and sports
- Sleep changes, including insomnia or sleeping more than normal
- Tiredness, lack of energy, and lethargy- the smallest tasks may seemingly take enormous effort
- Appetite changes including eating too little and losing weight or eating too much and gaining weight
- Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
- Slowed thoughts, movements, or speech
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Becoming fixated on past failures or self-blame
- Issues with thinking, concentrating, making decisions, problem-solving, and remembering things
- Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, or suicide
- Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
Generally, people with depression will notice these symptoms are impacting their day-to-day responsibilities such as work, school, social events, or relationships. Some individuals may describe themselves as unhappy or miserable and be unable to identify why exactly they are feeling that way.
When To Seek Mental Health Treatment For The Signs And Symptoms Of Depression
If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of depression, then you should schedule an appointment to see a mental health professional as soon as possible. If there are hesitations about seeking treatment, talk to a trusted friend or loved one about what you are experiencing.
Here at The Healing Center, we provide mental health treatment in New Jersey for those struggling with depression. The first step is a simple over-the-phone assessment. During the assessment, we will ask you a variety of questions about the symptoms you are experiencing. This allows us to make a recommendation about the type and level of care that would best suit your specific needs and circumstances.
When To Seek Emergency Help For Depression
If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or attempting suicide, then it is important to call 911 as soon as possible. Emergency doctors can help stabilize you and set you up with the treatment you need to get better.
The other options available include:
- Calling your doctor or mental health professional immediately
- Contact a 24/7 suicide hotline
- In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. Services are free and confidential.
- U.S. veterans or service members who are in crisis can call 988 and then press “1” for the Veterans Crisis Line. Or text 838255. Or chat online.
- The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. has a Spanish language phone line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).
- Reach out to a close friend or loved one
- Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community
If you have a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure that person does not remain alone. Contact 911 or your local emergency number immediately. No matter what the circumstance, emergency help is needed if you believe that you or someone you love is in danger of harming themselves.
What Are The Benefits Of Mental Health Treatment?
There are a multitude of different benefits when it comes to mental health treatment in New Jersey. The biggest benefit is that with consistency and the right help, the signs and symptoms of depression can subside. Generally, treatments include different therapies and medications. During treatment, you can expect to be assigned a therapist that works with you on a weekly basis and a psychiatrist that determines if medications are necessary.
Mental health treatment from professionals, like those at The Healing Center, is the best way to ensure the symptoms of depression go into remission. With the right help, you or your loved one can take their lives back. There is nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to seeking help. Call our admissions team today to learn more about the benefits of mental health treatment.
Mental Health Treatment For The Signs And Symptoms Of Depression In New Jersey
If you or a loved one are showing the signs and symptoms of depression, then it is time to get a medical evaluation. Here at The Healing Center, our team of mental health experts can recommend the best type of treatment for your individual needs. No matter what your circumstances are, we can help you. Furthermore, we work with most insurance plans in order to ensure that treatment is both accessible and affordable. Give our admissions team a call today to get started on your healing journey.
