Depression affects people from all walks of life every day. In fact, someone can struggle with depression at any time. For some, depression infrequently comes, while others struggle with reoccurring or consistent depressive disorders. While occasional low moods are a normal part of life, persistent, recurring depression is not. Unfortunately, mental health stigmas, a lack of mental health education, and a lack of treatment programs keep people from getting the help they need. Recognizing the risk factors for depression can help people know when it’s time to find a treatment center.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, we can help. A Better State’s holistic depression treatment center can help you or someone you love with comprehensive, trauma-informed treatment. Our PHP and IOP programs provide the treatment you need without compromising your schedule. Call us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about the common causes of depression and treatment options.
What Is Depression?
Characterized by a depressed mood, depression is a complex mood disorder. Often confused with sadness, depression can include emotional numbness, feelings of detachment, and hopelessness. Everyone’s experience of depression is unique. Today there are several types of depressive disorders, including:
- Seasonal depression (SAD)
- Clinical depression or high-functioning depression
- Postpartum depression
- Bipolar disorder
These depressive disorders can vary in duration and severity depending on a person’s genetics, health, lifestyle, and mental health. Psychologists, psychiatrists, and doctors diagnose and treat depression. Never attempt to self-medicate and self-soothe without professional support.
Common Causes and Risk Factors of Depression
There is no one cause of depression. While many think depression is only related to chemicals in the brain, there are many risk factors for developing depression. Five common causes of depression disorders can include:
- Unprocessed trauma, including abuse, natural disasters, accidents, and collective traumas
- Prolonged stress from work, school, chronic illness, financial stress, or relationships
- Diet and malnutrition
- Genetics and brain chemistry
- Lifestyle (drug use, alcohol consumption, poor stress management, and lack of exercise)
While someone may be at greater risk for developing depression if their family struggles with a depressive disorder, unprocessed trauma, prolonged stress, and life events can increase the risk. Unfortunately, many people struggle with unprocessed trauma that leads to depression. Substance use, diet, and malnutrition can also cause chemical imbalances that affect depression and overall mental health. Common signs of depression include:
- General malaise
- Self-isolation
- Fatigue
- Sadness
- Trouble concentrating
- Confusion
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
- Suicidal ideation
- Trouble leaving the house
- Self-harm
- Trouble sleeping
- Increased sleeping
- Losing track of time
- Hopelessness
- Lack of motivation
- Unexplained crying
- Trouble communicating with others
- Trouble completing tasks
Like other mental health conditions, depression symptoms can come and go. Unfortunately, this can lead many to try waiting out symptoms. This can lead to self-harm, suicidal ideation, a decreased quality of life, and long-term health problems. Seeking depression treatment is more accessible than most people think.
The Depression Treatment Center for You in New Hampshire
Depression is treatable. If you or someone you love is at risk for depression, don’t wait. Seek treatment today. The team at A Better State is here to help you uncover the root causes of depression. Our trauma-informed, holistic clinic provides individual, group, and family therapy for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use. With daytime and evening hours, our intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) provide accessible care in New Hampshire. Our combination of evidence-based and alternative treatments supports overall healing. No matter your symptoms, we can help you recover and thrive.
Learn More About the Reasons for Depression and Treatment at A Better State
Call our team now to learn more about the common causes of depression. Contact our friendly staff at 781.412.1488 to schedule an assessment today.
