Depression is more than just occasional feelings of sadness; it’s a serious mental health condition that can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life. Two of the more common types of depression are major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder. Major depressive disorder involves experiencing intense sadness for at least two weeks, while persistent depressive disorder is characterized by less severe symptoms that last for two years or more. Although living with these symptoms can be increasingly challenging, depression is a highly treatable condition.
At Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital in West Bloomfield, Michigan, we provide evidence-based, individualized care to meet people who are struggling with depression wherever they are on their path to healing. Our programming is available for adolescents ages 12-17 and adults age 18 and older and is designed to help patients learn to manage symptoms and work toward becoming the healthiest, happiest version of themselves.
Signs & Symptoms of Depression
Depression can manifest in various ways, and the signs and symptoms can differ from person to person. However, there are several common indicators that someone is battling depression. Recognizing these signs is essential for understanding when to seek help or support others who may be suffering.
Emotional symptoms of depression include:
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that persist most of the day, nearly every day
- Reduced interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable, including social, work, or leisure activities
- A sense of inadequacy, worthlessness, failure, or self-blame, even over minor matters
- Heightened levels of worry, anxiety, restlessness, frustration, or agitation without a clear reason why
- Difficulty focusing, remembering things, or making decisions
Physical symptoms of depression include:
- Significant weight loss or gain, or noticeable changes in eating habits, such as eating too much or too little
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or sleeping excessively
- Persistent exhaustion, even after a full night’s rest, and feeling sluggish throughout the day
- Headaches, stomachaches, or muscle pain without an apparent medical cause
Behavioral symptoms of depression include:
- Avoiding friends, family, and social activities, sometimes isolating oneself entirely
- Difficulty keeping up with work, school, or personal responsibilities due to lack of motivation
- A decline in personal grooming or hygiene, such as not showering or wearing clean clothes
- Turning to alcohol, drugs, or other substances to cope with overwhelming emotions
In serious cases, depression may lead to recurring thoughts about death, dying, or self-harm, including making plans for or attempting suicide. These symptoms require immediate attention.
If you or someone you love is exhibiting signs or symptoms of depression, please seek help and guidance from a professional. Receiving treatment can make a significant difference in helping you learn how to manage symptoms.
Depression Causes & Risk Factors
Depression is a prevalent and complex mental health disorder that impacts many individuals. Although it typically manifests in adulthood, symptoms can emerge at any age.
There is no single cause of depression; rather, experts suggest that a combination of factors, such as brain chemistry, hormonal changes, genetics, and biological variations, can increase a person’s likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors for depression include:
- A family history of depression
- Poor nutritional habits
- Traumatic or stressful life experiences
- A personal history of other mental health concerns
- Chronic or severe medical conditions, such as heart disease or cancer
- Substance use disorders
Effects of Depression
Depression can impact how a person thinks, behaves, and feels. When left untreated, it can lead to severe emotional and physical challenges.
Common effects of depression include:
- Lack of self-esteem
- Physical illness
- Employment issues
- Isolation or social withdrawal
- Poor self-care
- Onset or worsening of other mental health concerns
- Addiction or substance use
- Strained relationships with family or friends
Depression Statistics
Depression is a widespread mental health concern in the U.S., affecting millions of adults each year. The following statistics from the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance highlight the need for accessible, tailored mental healthcare across diverse communities:
- An estimated 21 million adults have had at least one major depressive episode, representing 8.3% of the U.S. adult population.
- Adult females are more likely than adult males to suffer from depression.
- Young adults ages 18-25 have the highest rates of depression, with 18.6% reporting at least one major depressive episode.
- Depression is most prevalent among individuals who identify as being of two or more races.
Therapies Used in Depression Treatment
If you are living with depression, the idea of seeking help may feel daunting. However, it’s important to know that depression is highly treatable with the right support.
Just as the signs and symptoms of depression vary from person to person, the healing journey is also unique for each individual. At our inpatient psychiatric hospital, we conduct a comprehensive assessment for every patient to identify the services and resources that can best help them achieve their treatment goals.
Depending on a patient’s needs, their treatment plan may incorporate individual, family, group, and experiential therapies, as well as basic medical care and medication management services. Additionally, we offer various evidence-based therapies, including dialectical behavior therapy.
Benefits of Depression Treatment
Depression treatment can lead to significant improvements in a person’s overall quality of life. Here are some potential benefits of receiving depression treatment:
- Improved mood and well-being: One of the most immediate benefits of depression treatment is an improvement in mood. Effective treatment can help reduce feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and irritability, leading to a more positive outlook on life.
- Enhanced daily functioning: Depression can hinder a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks, from work to social interactions. Treatment can enhance motivation and energy levels, enabling individuals to engage more fully at work, in school, and in their relationships.
- Better relationships: Depression often affects relationships with family and friends. Treatment can help individuals learn effective communication and coping strategies, fostering healthier connections and improving social interactions.
- Increased self-esteem: As individuals begin to feel better, their self-esteem and self-worth typically improve. Treatment can help challenge negative thought patterns, empowering individuals to develop a more positive self-image and greater confidence in their abilities.
- Development of coping skills: Therapies often focus on teaching effective coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. These skills can be beneficial not only during treatment but throughout a person’s life, equipping them to handle future challenges more effectively.
- Reduction of physical symptoms: Depression can manifest through physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and digestive problems. Treatment can alleviate these symptoms, improving overall physical health and well-being.
- Prevention of future episodes: Engaging in treatment can help individuals recognize the early signs and symptoms of depression and develop strategies to prevent future episodes. This proactive approach can lead to long-term stability and resilience.
- Access to support networks: Therapy often provides a safe space for people to share their feelings and experiences, fostering a sense of connection. Group therapy offers patients the opportunity to connect with others who have had similar struggles, reducing feelings of isolation.
- Holistic health benefits: Treating depression can lead to improvements in other areas of health, including sleep quality, nutrition, and physical activity. As mental health improves, individuals may feel more motivated to maintain a healthy lifestyle, leading to better overall physical health.
- Increased overall life satisfaction: Ultimately, effective treatment can lead to a more fulfilling life. By addressing the challenges of living with depression, individuals can pursue their goals, enjoy meaningful relationships, and find joy in everyday activities.
Why Choose Our Depression Treatment Center in West Bloomfield, Michigan
Finding the right treatment for depression starts with choosing a provider who offers personalized care. At Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital in West Bloomfield, Michigan, we take a tailored approach from the very beginning. From the admissions process to aftercare planning, our focus is on delivering individualized care that helps you make the most of your time with us.
During your stay at our inpatient psychiatric hospital, you will receive high-quality care in a warm and welcoming environment. Our campus is situated in a serene, wooded area and features a state-of-the-art facility that has comfortable treatment rooms and several accessible outdoor spaces. You’ll receive round-the-clock care, and you’ll have opportunities for self-reflection.
If you would like to learn more about our depression treatment options, please contact our team today. We can assess whether our services are a good fit for your needs and recommend the appropriate level of care. Reaching out for help is a courageous first step toward healing, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital.