Depression Issues
Clinical depression is more than feeling sad. It is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of adults in the United States each year. It is one of the most common mental health concerns today.
Depression can affect anyone. Women are more likely than men to experience depression. Depression is also increasing among teens.
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Higher Risk
Women are about twice as likely as men to experience depression. This may be connected to stress, discrimination, rejection, or feeling unsafe being themselves.
Why Treatment
Untreated depression can seriously affect a person’s life. It can hurt relationships, school, work, and daily routines. It can also affect family members and loved ones.
Episode Length
Without treatment, depression can last for months or even years. This can make it hard to build healthy relationships, stay motivated, and feel productive at work or school.
Depression Facts
The National Institute of Mental Health reported that 16.2 million U.S. adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2016. That was about 6.7% of adults in the United States. Depression was most common in adults ages 18 to 25. It was also higher among people who identified as two or more races.
Real Illness
Depression is a real illness. Researchers believe it may be connected to changes in brain chemicals. These chemicals help control mood, energy, sleep, and motivation. Depression can also change appetite, sleep, energy, and how a person thinks.
No Clear Reason
Depression does not always happen because of one clear event or encounter. Sometimes people feel depressed after losing a job, grieving a death, or going through stress. This does not mean the person is weak or making it up.
Many Causes
There is usually not just one cause of depression. Depression can come from a mix of genetic, biological, emotional, and environmental factors. Stressful life events can also trigger symptoms. Each person’s situation is different.
Treatment Works
Depression can be treated. Many people feel better with therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these. New treatments are also being studied and developed. There is hope, even when depression feels overwhelming.
Depression Signs
Depression can look different from person to person. For many people, depression feels like sadness that does not go away. It can last for weeks or longer. People may also feel tired, unmotivated, irritable, or uninterested in things they used to enjoy.
Daily Changes
Depression can affect sleep and eating habits. Some people sleep too much. Others have trouble sleeping. Some people eat more than usual. Others lose their appetite.
Negative Thoughts
Depression can also affect how a person thinks about themselves. They may feel worthless, guilty, hopeless, or like they are a burden to others. Some people may have thoughts of self harm or suicide. If someone is thinking about suicide, they should get help right away. In the United States, call or text 988 for immediate support.
Children’s Signs
Children can have depression too. In younger children, signs may include sadness, irritability, clinginess, worry, body aches, or refusing to go to school. Some children may also lose weight or have trouble gaining weight.
Teen Signs
Teen depression can include sadness, anger, irritability, or feeling worthless. Teens may do poorly in school or stop attending. They may feel misunderstood or extremely sensitive. Some teens may use alcohol or drugs, sleep too much, eat too much, avoid people, lose interest in activities, or harm themselves.
Possible Factors
Depression does not have one single cause. It often depends on a person’s biology, family history, life experiences, and current stress. Several factors can work together.
Brain Changes
People with depression may have physical changes in the brain. Researchers are still studying what these changes mean. Over time, this research may help explain more about what causes depression.
Brain Chemistry
Brain chemicals called neurotransmitters may play a role in depression. These chemicals help brain cells communicate. They are also involved in mood, motivation, and emotional balance. Changes in these chemicals may affect depression symptoms and treatment.
Hormone Changes
Hormones may also play a role in depression. Changes during pregnancy, after childbirth, menopause, thyroid problems, or other health conditions can affect mood. This is one reason a medical checkup can be helpful.
Family History
Depression can run in families. People may have a higher chance of depression if close blood relatives have also had it. Researchers are still studying which genes may be involved.
LGBT Stress
People in the LGBT community may face extra stress that can increase the risk of depression. This can include stigma, discrimination, bullying, rejection, or lack of support from family or community. These experiences can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.
Treatment Options
Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Many people improve with the right care. Between 80% and 90% of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment. Almost all people who receive treatment get some relief from symptoms.
Medical Checkup
A general medical checkup is often a good first step. Some health problems, such as thyroid issues, can cause or worsen depression symptoms. A doctor can help rule out medical causes.
Medication Help
Some people benefit from medication. Medication may be prescribed by a primary care doctor or a psychiatrist. It can help balance brain chemicals that affect mood. Medication is often used with therapy, especially for moderate or severe depression.
Talk Therapy
Psychotherapy is also called talk therapy. It can help people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It can also teach healthier ways to cope. For mild depression, therapy may be used by itself. For moderate or severe depression, therapy is often combined with medication.
CBT Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, also called CBT, can help treat depression. CBT focuses on the present and teaches problem solving skills. It helps people notice unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier ones. CBT also helps people change behaviors that may keep depression going.
DBT Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy, also called DBT, can also help with depression. DBT teaches skills for managing emotions, handling stress, improving relationships, and staying present in the moment. DBT also focuses on recognizing a person’s strengths and building healthier habits over time.
Parent Support
Parents often play an important role in a child’s treatment. They can help support therapy goals at home. They can also help children practice new coping skills. Family support can make treatment more effective.
Treatment Time
The length of treatment depends on the person and the severity of depression. Some people feel better after a few weeks. Others may need longer care. Many people see real improvement within 10 to 20 therapy sessions.
Healthy Habits
Daily habits can help reduce depression symptoms. Regular exercise can improve mood and create more positive feelings. Good sleep, healthy food, and avoiding alcohol can also help. These habits do not replace treatment, but they can support recovery.
Self Care
A healthy self care routine is important. Helpful activities may include sports, hobbies, art, time in nature, or caring for a pet. Small positive routines can help people feel more stable and connected.
Abalance Client-Centered Counseling
Providing Convenient and Effective Counseling In The Central Valley And Coastal Region
Our office is dedicated to providing the best mental health services to ALL people in our community regardless of income.
We have a team of professionals that are continually sharpening their skills as mental health providers and attend regular training from the Clinical Director. Having a competent and knowledgeable therapist is only part of it.
We are also a group of caring and compassionate people that strive to make your time with us a safe, comfortable and rewarding experience.
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression Disorders
- Grief And Loss Issues
- Trauma Dynamics
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Frequently Asked Questions?
We have a team of professionals that are continually sharpening their skills as mental health providers and attend regular training from the Clinical Director. Having a competent and knowledgeable therapist is only part of it.
Are You Accepting New Clients?
Yes. Abalance Client-Centered Counseling is accepting new clients including kids age 12+. We offer Teletherapy Sessions and in-office visits.
Do I Need a Referral?
No. You can contact us directly and we will get your insurance eligibility established and schedule your first appointment. Your Health Plan may require an additional call to get a registration number after you have already established as a client in our office. We have a team here to help guide you through these things if you need assistance.
Do You Accept Insurance?
Yes, we currently accept HPSJ (Health Plan Of San Joaquin) and CCAH (Central California Alliance) MediCal Insurances. Abalance Client-Centered Counseling also accepts most Blue Cross Insurances. If you any questions, please contact our office directly for additional information.
For other insurances, we provide an out-of-network option for you to bill your insurance and get reimbursed for up to 80% of your therapy costs in our offices.
Do You Treat Substance Abuse?
No, we treat mild/moderate symptoms for a variety of issues, but not alcohol and drug issues. If you have an addiction or are seeking sobriety, we refer out to a professional that treats substance abuse.
What If I Can’t Attend Weekly Sessions?
Weekly sessions are the best care option for mental health outcomes, but we also provide an every other week option, or Teletherapy if you have a hectic schedule.