Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a serious form of mood disorder that causes ongoing, sometimes persistent feelings of helplessness, sadness, and loss of motivation and interest. A person with this condition isn’t able to just snap out of it or feel better the next day. Rather, it impacts daily life, energy levels, and overall physical and mental health.
At Willow Creek Behavioral Health, we stress that immediate help is available to you. You don’t need to live in a state of depression, and you can recover from these debilitating symptoms. Do not wait to reach out to us for immediate help.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
MMD symptoms range from mild to severe. The most common signs of depression include:
- Persistent feelings of emptiness and sadness
- Significant change in weight, either gaining or losing weight
- Loss of interest in things you love to do, including activities or people you spend time with
- Trouble concentrating so much so that it impacts your ability to maintain responsibilities
- Severe fatigue and a constant feeling of having no energy
- Difficulty with sleeping or wanting to sleep all of the time
- Feelings of worthlessness and helplessness
If you have these symptoms, or your loved one does, and they continue for at least two weeks, it is time to seek help. Depression is a serious condition that can rapidly worsen without treatment.
The National Institutes of Mental Health shares that 21 million adults in the U.S. have had at least one major depressive episode. Women are more likely to have it than men, with 10.3% of all women impacted and just 6.2% of men. The types of depression women face, as well as the severity, can be more debilitating than that of men.
Why Do People Suffer From Major Depressive Disorder?
MMD can happen for many reasons, and sometimes there is no real understanding of what it stems from or why it happens. There is no single cause for it. Rather, it is common for numerous complex factors to play a role in the onset of MMD, including:
- Biological and genetic makeup. Those with a family history of MMD are more likely to suffer from it themselves
- Brain chemistry. Changes in the hormone levels or hormone dysfunction can contribute to depression.
- Major, and especially sudden, life changes. These make it hard for the brain to recognize what’s occurring and to make changes.
- Environmental factors. These can include trauma and abuse, especially during vulnerable years.
In all of these and other situations, your treatment team will work to understand what is happening to you without making you relive those experiences. Sometimes understanding why this is happening can help you create a better path forward.
How Is Major Depressive Disorder Treated?
Treatment for major depressive disorder in Green Bay starts with an assessment. Our team will gather as much information about you and your mental health before moving forward. It’s not just about taking medications or waiting it out. Real, authentic treatment helps you restore your life and wellbeing. Treatment for you will be personalized, but could include:
- Medication: Medication helps balance MMD, creating a path forward. Antidepressants can work to reduce the hormone changes that often cause depression to be far more challenging.
- Psychotherapy: Numerous types of talk therapy can play a significant role in healing from depression. This often starts with cognitive behavioral therapy and may include additional strategies.
- Holistic wellbeing: In many situations, you’ll find treatment of depression also opens the door for more holistic healing of your physical and mental health.
- Lifestyle changes: Adjusting lifestyle factors that could be contributing to unhealthy outcomes is also important. For example, you may benefit from regular exercise or eating a healthy, nutrient-based diet. Maintaining sleep can help.
- Substance use disorder treatment: Some people with depression also face substance use disorder concerns. Treatment for addiction and depression at the same time is possible and can be life-changing.
Our depression treatment in Green Bay prepares you for a future that you control. There’s no single plan that addresses every person’s unique needs. However, we will work closely with you to create an individualized treatment plan to help you navigate depression.
Can You Heal from Depression? Yes, and We Can Help
At Willow Creek Behavioral Health, we pride ourselves on creating a safe environment. There’s no judgment, no limitations, and no reasons to believe you can’t heal. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our major depressive disorder treatment program in Green Bay. Allow our team to create a plan to address your specific needs. Contact us now.
