Depression

Persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, miserable, unhappy, gloomy, empty, irritable or hopeless. If these words are some of the ways you would describe yourself, you may be experiencing depression.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), depression affects approximately 16 million people each year. The CDC estimates that about 1 in 6 will become depressed at some point in their lifetime to the degree that we would give them a “medical diagnosis” of depression. In addition, many people’s low moods may not be diagnosable as depression because people simply view their sadness as normal due to the ups and downs of life.

  • Stress and Depression

    All life changes, whether positive or negative, cause stress to our system, and depending on our coping skills and the amount of stress, this may cause or deepen depression. These changes or stresses can be caused by external (something that occurred) or internal (biological).

  • Examples of external triggers include:
    Moving, job loss, floods, fires, injuries, marriages, births and deaths.

  • Examples of Internal triggers include:
    Menstrual cycles, dysregulated hormones, heart attacks, illness, and our perception of events as negative or positive and whether we feel helpless, hopeless, or have some sense of control.

Symptoms

change in sleep

feelings of worthlessness

loss of interest/pleasure

irritability

tearfulness

alcohol/drug abuse

decreased concentration

decreased motivation

guilt

decreased sex drive

sudden loss/gain of weight

shame

changes in eating habits

fatigue

low self-esteem

withdrawal

suicidal thoughts

anger

sadness

If you recognize any of the symptoms of depression, you may need to seek professional help

Treatment Recommendations

Cognitive Therapy
How we think affects how we feel, and so by identifying harmful thoughts, we can change our thinking and feel better.

Social Connection
Increased isolation is related to depression. Research shows that men die sooner than females after a spouse dies due to isolation. This death risk of social isolation is equal to that of smoking and high cholesterol.

Nutrition
What we ingest affects our bodies and, ultimately, our moods. Since each of us is unique, it pays to be aware of your own body and the effects you feel from what you ingest. Some obvious substances can play a role in depression.

Positive affecters

Exercise - Exercise has some research to support it as a stand-alone treatment for depression. It alters and benefits us through internal releases of biochemicals (serotonin, epinephrine), increasing our sense of control and well-being.

Relaxation - Relaxation helps to modify the physical symptoms of tension, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Meditation - Stress and anxiety are major triggers for depression, and meditation can alter your reaction to those feelings. Meditation techniques can train the brain to achieve sustained focus and to return to that focus when negative thinking occurs.

Medication - Medication addresses the biochemistry of the body through direct chemical means.

Negative affecters

Alcohol – The use of alcohol exacerbates depression by disturbing sleep and limiting one’s ability to change. It can also lead to physical and emotional withdrawal, which enhances isolation and has other family members complaining about you.

Food – Moods are affected by our eating habits; when our eating is balanced, mood swings can be minimized. Simple sugars can cause more swings in our energy levels.

Drugs– Prescription, over-the-counter, and illicit drugs all have side effects. Some of these side effects can promote or exacerbate depression.

Nicotine – Nicotine is a stimulant that, in the short run, may give you a quick lift, but you will soon lose the effect and drift your mood downward. Some research supports the idea that people who use nicotine to deal with depression have a harder time becoming smoke-free.

If you recognize any of the symptoms of depression, you may need to seek professional help. For depression treatment in Arvada, 70 West Counseling will work with you to discover the basis for your depression and options for care.

You are not alone! Our therapists are here to help you cope with the everyday ups and downs, as well as the more significant depression. If you are one of the many individuals who suffer from depression, please call us for a consultation today. We will get you on the right track for treatment for depression.