Depression is a treatable condition, but it is not considered curable in the traditional sense. Depression is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and can have a profound impact on a person's life. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and difficulty in carrying out daily activities.
It can be inherited and passed down through families. Your family may have a propensity to become depressed rather than someone who's family has more hereditary anxiety. There are many forms depression can take so no two people int he same family may have the same symptoms of depression. I'm sure you have heard family members say, "well I don't do that when I'm depressed so you must not be depressed". I too have been guilty of judging a family members depression because they were masking it with energized looking behavior.
Depression can also be developed over time. Life is difficult for many of us. After numerous disappointments, life events can make someone fall into a state of depression. In my professional opinion, this situational depression is easier to treat and possibly cure than a hereditary form.
The treatment for depression typically involves a combination of things, including:
Psychotherapy: This involves talking to a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or counselor, to explore and address the underlying issues contributing to depression.
Medication: Antidepressant medications can be prescribed by a psychiatrist to help manage the symptoms of depression. These medications work by balancing certain chemicals in the brain. This is definitely recommended if your depression has gone on for over 2 years and if it has gotten to the point of having thoughts of death or suicide. The difference here is that thoughts of death are passive. Things like "it would be ok not to wake up tomorrow". Suicidal ideation involves active thoughts like "I should jump in front of a bus tomorrow". People with hereditary or persistent forms of depression may need to take medication their whole lives just as you would take your diabetes medication. People with situational forms may be able to stop such medication once symptoms have alleviated and they have gained understanding to manage depression causing stressors. If you have these symptoms, talk to a medical professional. Don't let stigma deter you from getting the help you need.
Lifestyle changes: Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress can also have a positive impact on managing depression. Work with a counselor, life coach or therapist to prioritize these things and create a balanced life that works for you.
Support networks: Building and maintaining a strong support system of friends, family, or support groups can be beneficial for individuals dealing with depression. This can also involve leaving toxic relationships. Our therapists are skilled and experienced at helping people escape toxic relationships.
Early intervention and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in managing depression and improving overall well-being. It's also important to note that ongoing research and advances in the field of mental health may lead to improved treatment options in the future. Don't give up. Start your healing journey today!
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