Understanding Depression

Depression is a serious but common illness. One in 10 adults report experiencing depression, and the condition is the most common cause of disability in the United States. The lifetime risk of any individual person becoming depressed is around 17 percent, and most people have their first bout of depression in their late teens or early twenties. The condition is slightly more common among women, but some researchers speculate that this may be because men are less likely to seek help or because their symptoms are more likely to manifest as anger and other emotional reactions.

Depression’s symptoms are distinct from the symptoms associated with grief when feeling emotionally overwhelmed is normal, expected and temporary. Depression may be indicated when feelings of sadness and despair disrupt daily life, disinterest in previously enjoyable activities with family and friends, and persistent symptoms for more than two weeks.

Those who have experienced trauma or are prone to anxiety may be more likely to experience depression than those who have not, and research suggests that engaging in professional counseling with an expert can help guide you.

Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms of Depression can vary greatly from person to person and may even change over time. Symptoms may also vary depending on an individual's gender, or age. Adolescents experiencing depression might appear irritable and agitated, and women may be more likely to admit to depression than men.

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Frequent crying and overwhelming feelings of sadness;
• Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness;
• Changes in sleep such as excessive sleeping or insomnia;
• Anxiety;
• Anger;
• Difficulty enjoying previously-enjoyed activities;
• Unexplained physical ailments such as headaches or muscle pain;
• Difficulty focusing or concentrating;
• Changes in weight or eating habits;
• Thoughts of suicide or wanting to die;

At Family Solutions Counseling Center, our licensed therapists are highly skilled to help facilitate an environment that allows individuals express their feelings, to help you find the words to describe how you feel, and to be heard and supported while developed healthy coping skills.