What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that affects how you think, feel, and behave. People of all ages can develop depression from a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

There are many types of depression, including:

Major depressive disorder 

Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is a serious mood disorder that causes severe symptoms that make everyday activities like going to work or school impossible. 

Persistent depressive disorder

Persistent depressive disorder causes a depressed mood that lasts two or more years. 

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

People with SAD develop depression during the winter when the days are shorter and there’s less natural sunlight. These depressive symptoms disappear during the spring when the days get longer. 

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is a major depressive disorder that affects women during pregnancy or after they give birth. A woman with postpartum depression may experience extreme sadness and anxiety that make it hard for her to take care of herself and her baby.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression symptoms vary in type and severity. However, people with depression struggle to manage their day-to-day responsibilities.

Common depression symptoms include:

• Ongoing sadness or emptiness
• Feeling hopeless, pessimistic, worthless, or helpless
• Feelings of guilt or shame
• Fatigue
• Low energy
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Eating more or less than usual
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Losing interest in preferred activities
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Physical aches and pains

Though it’s not uncommon to have feelings of depression from time to time, with a depressive disorder these symptoms occur daily for two or more weeks. 

What happens during a depression consultation?

Dr. Brosius is an experienced clinical psychologist and performs a diagnostic intake at your initial depression consultation. During this inital session, she asks detailed questions to better understand your concerns and your medical and mental health history. 

Following your diagnostic intake session, Dr. Brosius may recommend additional testing to evaluate your mental, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Dr. Brosius is an expert in mental health disorders and will suggest the appropriate next steps. 

How is depression treated?

Depression treatment may include antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Antidepressant medication eases your symptoms, while psychotherapy helps you address your mood disorder.

Don’t let depression keep you from living your life. Call the office of Debra N Brosius, Psy.D., LLC, or book an appointment online today.