Depression isn’t always obvious. This serious mood disorder impacts more than 300 million people around the world. Yet many individuals suffer silently, feeling sad, hopeless or worthless.
Depression is painful for the depressed person and their loved ones who witness how it ravages the mind, emotions and body. From the very young to the very old, depression can impact anyone. If you or your loved one is struggling with depression, counseling services are available at Merrimack Valley Psychological Associates in Andover and the surrounding areas.
Understanding the Causes of Depression
There isn’t one single cause of depression, which means it can be difficult to understand who is at risk. Psychologists agree that depression is the result of a combination of factors, including:
- Genetics: While there isn’t a single gene that causes depression, this severe disorder tends to run in families.
- Environment: A harsh early environment, such as childhood abuse or neglect, can cause depression — both early in life and into adulthood.
- Biology: Traumatic experiences can alter the sensitivity of the central nervous system. Depression could be a biological response to distressing or threatening situations or events.
- Psychology: Depression may be a painful signal that basic psychological needs are unmet. Individuals who struggle with depression may lack the skills to process negative feelings. Thus, experiences such as the loss of a loved one, failure, social isolation or rejection could result in an episode of depression.
Speak with a Counselor Specializing in Depression at (978) 482–7351
Symptoms of Depression
There are many symptoms associated with depression — and everyone’s experience is slightly different. While some may feel like they’re living in a dark hole, others feel angry or experience intense guilt.
If you’re not sure how to identify depression in yourself or your loved one, here are common signs:
- Sadness that lasts almost all day on most days
- Feeling worthless
- Excessive guilt
- Losing interest in things or activities you once enjoyed
- Loss of energy and persistent fatigue
- Changes in sleep, such as insomnia or oversleeping
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in appetite and fluctuating weight
- Agitation or restlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Attempted suicide
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Types of Depression
Depression is not one single diagnosis. There are several different types of depression, including:
- Major depressive disorder: Major depression, also known as classic or unipolar depression, is one of the most common types. With major depressive disorder, you experience a loss of interest in activities and a depressed mood on most days for at least two weeks.
- Persistent depressive disorder: When depression lasts for two years or longer, it’s known as persistent depressive disorder. Often referred to as chronic depression or dysthymia, this disorder is characterized as a low-grade, ongoing depression.
- Bipolar disorder: One of the characteristics of bipolar disorder, or manic depression, is a depressive period. During this low period, which can happen either before or after a manic period, you’ll experience the symptoms of a major depressive episode.
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Some women experience premenstrual dysphoric disorder at the start of their period. PMDD, which is more severe than PMS, causes symptoms such as anxiety, irritability and depression. These symptoms usually go away once menstruation begins.
- Peripartum (postpartum) depression: Following childbirth, some women experience a depressive episode that is referred to as peripartum depression. Symptoms can occur either weeks or months after childbirth. Depression while pregnant, called perinatal depression, is a related disorder.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Seasonal affective disorder typically occurs during the winter months when there is less sunlight. SAD, which is also called seasonal depression, causes symptoms similar to major depression that begin to resolve in the spring or summer months.
- Situational depression: This type of depression is caused by a specific situation. Also called adjustment disorder with a depressed mood, this type of depression could be brought on by events ranging from divorce to the death of a family member or friend.
How to Treat Depression
While a depression diagnosis can feel scary, there are many effective treatment options available to help patients cope or recover from this disorder. At our Andover practice, we offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychotherapy and other techniques designed to give you the emotional tools you need to deal with the often overwhelming negative feelings associated with depression.
All of our depression counseling services are provided by experienced, compassionate therapists who will work with you to develop the optimal treatment plan for your situation. Whether you come to our counseling center in downtown Andover or schedule teletherapy for depression counseling, we’ll make sure you feel comfortable and well-equipped to reach your goals.
When you speak with one of our depression therapists, you can find new hope. You’ll also find a variety of other benefits to help you cope with depression, such as:.
- Understanding the cause of your depression
- Addressing the negative thoughts, feelings and beliefs that give rise to depressive episodes.
- Finding ways to manage the negative thoughts, feelings and beliefs.
- Learning tools to manage depression in a more healthy, productive way.
- Gaining critical coping skills.
- Improving relationships with loved ones, work or school performance and overall quality of life.
Find a Depression Therapist in Andover
If you struggle with depression or suspect that your child may have a mood disorder, don’t wait. Depression is a severe mental health concern that requires professional treatment. At Merrimack Valley Psychological Associates, you’ll find highly trained and compassionate psychologists for depression.
Our flexible style allows us to incorporate various techniques into your individualized treatment plan to ensure you get the help you need. From children and adolescents to adults and families, our certified psychologists for depression work to accommodate the unique needs and challenges of every patient.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment for depression counseling. We want to help you find the path to hope and healing.
Reviewed By
Dr. David Rainen, PsyD.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an extensive background treating a variety of different ages, situations, emotional and mental health disorders in individuals and their families. As part of my 10 year professional and training career in psychology, I have developed and refined my skills and approaches through my work in a variety of diverse settings including: hospitals, community outpatient facilities, college counseling centers, secure and unsecure inpatient/residential treatment programs, and therapeutic day schools.
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