What is Depression and How Can I Get Help?

Sadness is a natural part of life, a response to the challenges and losses we all face. Depression, however, transcends ordinary sadness, impacting all aspects of your life and making it difficult to function. At Clear Behavioral Health, we recognize the toll depression and other behavioral health conditions can take on individuals and their loved ones, as depression is a complex issue that requires compassionate care and effective treatment.

Depression manifests in various forms, affecting your mood, behavior, and physical health. Involving persistent feelings of hopelessness, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.[1] Left untreated, depression can worsen over time, making daily activities seem overwhelming and diminishing your quality of life.[2] Clear Behavioral Health offers a range of specialized services to support those struggling with depression. We’re dedicated to helping you find hope and healing with our unique and individualized treatment programs for depression and other dual diagnosis issues.

What is Depression, Exactly?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.[3] It affects how a person thinks, feels, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.

Depression is more than just feeling down or sad for a few days—it’s a prolonged condition that can significantly impact both your quality of life and your ability to function.

Some of the key features of depression include:[4]

• Persistent sadness: Individuals with depression often experience a deep and pervasive sadness that doesn’t seem to lift, regardless of circumstances. This sadness may be accompanied by feelings of emptiness or worthlessness.
• Loss of interest: A marked decrease in interest or pleasure in activities that were previously enjoyable is a common symptom. Hobbies, social interactions, and personal relationships may feel less fulfilling or rewarding.
• Changes in appetite and weight: Depression can affect appetite in different ways—some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite and significant weight loss, while others may overeat and gain weight.
• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, where individuals have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping excessively (hypersomnia), is often associated with depression.
• Fatigue or loss of energy: Even simple tasks can feel exhausting for someone with depression. They may feel physically drained and struggle to muster the energy to carry out daily responsibilities.
• Feelings of worthlessness: Persistent feelings of inadequacy, guilt over past events or perceived failures, and self-blame are common in depression.
• Difficulty concentrating: Depression can impair concentration, memory, and decision-making abilities. This can affect work, school, or other daily tasks.
• Suicidal thoughts: In severe cases, depression may lead to thoughts of self-harm, death, or suicide. It’s vital to seek immediate help if someone expresses suicidal ideation or intent.

Depression symptoms can vary widely in severity and duration. Some people may experience a single episode of depression, while others may have recurring episodes throughout their lives. It can also co-occur with other mental health disorders, such as anxiety, substance abuse, or eating disorders.

How Common is Depression?

Depression is a prevalent mental health condition that affects a significant portion of the global population. Worldwide, an estimated 280 million people grapple with depression, and nearly 29.0% of adults in the US have reported receiving a diagnosis at some point in their lives (an uptick of nearly 10 percentage points since 2015).[5, 6]

Approximately 5% of adult men and 6% of adult women experience depression. In 2021 alone, an estimated 14.5 million U.S. adults—representing 5.7% of the adult population—experienced at least one major depressive episode with severe impairment.[7]

Are There Different Kinds of Depression?

Depression isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition; it manifests in various forms and can differ in terms of symptoms, duration, and triggers [8]. Here are some of the most common depressive disorders:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

MDD is the most common form, also known simply as depression or clinical depression. Involving persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in daily activities, and lasting for at least two weeks. Other symptoms of depression may include changes in appetite and sleep patterns, fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of death, self harm, or suicide.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Formerly known as dysthymia, PDD is characterized by a chronic but milder form of depression. Symptoms are less severe than MDD but last much longer, typically persisting for two years or more. Individuals with PDD may experience periods of major depression along with periods of less severe symptoms.

Bipolar Disorder

Formerly known as manic-depressive illness, bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mood swings that range from depressive lows to manic highs. During manic episodes, individuals may experience elevated mood, increased energy, and risky behaviors. The depressive episodes are similar to those in MDD.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

This severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects a small percentage of menstruating individuals. Symptoms occur in the week or two before menstruation and include mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and physical symptoms like bloating or breast tenderness.

Perinatal Depression

Depression that occurs during pregnancy (prenatal depression) or in the weeks or months after childbirth (postpartum depression). Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the challenges of new parenthood can contribute to perinatal depression.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

This type of depression typically occurs during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include low energy, oversleeping, overeating (especially carbohydrates), and social withdrawal. Some people may experience the opposite pattern with symptoms occurring in spring or summer.

Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood

This is a short-term condition that occurs in response to a specific stressor or life event, such as a job loss, divorce, or illness. Symptoms resemble those of MDD but typically resolve once the stressor is removed or the person adjusts to the situation.

Related: What is Debilitating or Crippling Depression — and How Can I Get Help?

What Causes Depression?

The causes of depression are complex, involving a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors:[9]

Biological Factors

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in certain neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin which are involved in mood regulation, can contribute to depression.
• Hormonal imbalance: Changes in hormone levels, such as during puberty, pregnancy, aging or menopause, can influence mood and contribute to the onset of depression.
• Genetics: A family history of depression can increase the risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the disorder.

Psychological Factors

• Trauma and stress: Significant life events, such as the loss of a loved one, relationship problems, financial difficulties, or trauma (physical, emotional, or sexual abuse) can trigger or heighten depression.
• Personality traits: Certain personality traits, such as pessimism, being overly self-critical, or low self-esteem may contribute to the development of depression.
• Cognitive patterns: Negative thinking patterns, distorted thinking (e.g., jumping to conclusions, catastrophizing), and rumination (repetitive negative thoughts) can maintain or worsen depressive symptoms.

Environmental Factors

• Stressful life events: Chronic stress or a series of stressful life events can overwhelm coping mechanisms and increase the risk of depression.
• Social isolation: Lack of social support, loneliness, or feeling disconnected from others can contribute to feelings of depression.
• Childhood adversity: Adverse experiences during childhood, such as neglect, abuse, or parental conflict, can increase the likelihood of developing depression later in life.

Other Factors

• Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, or chronic pain can increase the risk of depression.
• Substance abuse: Alcohol or drug abuse can contribute to or worsen depressive symptoms.
• Medication: Certain medications, including some used to treat hypertension, insomnia, or chronic pain, may increase the risk of depression as a side effect and should be discussed with a mental health professional.

How is Depression Diagnosed?

Diagnosing depression involves a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional. It typically begins with a clinical interview to discuss symptoms, medical history, and any contributing factors, like recent life events or stressors. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria are used to guide diagnosing, focusing on symptoms of depression such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.[10]

A physical exam and lab tests may be conducted to rule out medical conditions that could mimic depressive symptoms. Psychological evaluations, including questionnaires or tests, help assess the severity of depression and its impact on your daily life.

Differential diagnosis ensures other mental health conditions, like bipolar disorder or anxiety disorders, are carefully considered. Cultural factors and personal experiences are also taken into account to understand how depression manifests and affects individuals differently.

Related: What is a Psychological Evaluation?

When Should I Seek Help for Depression?

Seeking help for depression is important when you notice persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities that interfere with your daily life for more than a few weeks. It’s important to reach out to a healthcare professional if you find yourself struggling to cope with these emotions, as well as if you experience changes in sleep or appetite patterns that disrupt your routine.

Additionally, if you notice that your relationships are being affected, seeking professional guidance can be beneficial. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide should always be taken seriously, and immediate help should be sought by contacting a mental health professional, crisis hotline, or going to the nearest emergency room.

Delaying seeking help can lead to worsening symptoms of depression and can impact various aspects of your life, including work, school, and personal relationships. It may also increase the risk of developing other mental health conditions or physical health problems over time. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes, as treatment options such as therapy, medication, or lifestyle adjustments can effectively manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.

What Are My Treatment Options for Depression?

Treatment options for depression vary depending on the severity of symptoms and your individual needs:

Medications

Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), atypical antidepressants, and others are often prescribed to help regulate neurotransmitters in the brain. These medications can alleviate symptoms of depression and improve mood.

Therapy

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is another important treatment option. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) are among the types of therapy that can help individuals understand and manage their emotions, change negative thought patterns, and develop coping strategies for depression.

Residential Treatment

For severe cases where symptoms of depression significantly impact daily functioning and safety, inpatient treatment for depression offers intensive, round-the-clock care in a structured environment. This setting provides a comprehensive approach to stabilization and recovery, including therapy, medication management, and support from a multidisciplinary team.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment allows individuals to receive therapy and medication management while living at home and continuing with their daily activities. It offers flexibility and ongoing support from mental health professionals, typically through weekly or bi-weekly sessions. Typically, outpatient treatment starts with a partial hospitalization program (PHP) where individuals participate in group therapy for five days a week before transitioning to an intensive outpatient program (IOP) that usually takes place around three days a week. Both levels of care include a wide range of therapeutic modalities, group participation, as well as one-on-one sessions with a therapist and case manager to provide a well-rounded treatment plan designed to help people heal from the effects of mental health conditions.

Related: What is an IOP? PHP & IOP Treatment and How Can It Help Your Family

Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (Virtual IOP)

Virtual intensive outpatient programs provide structured, intensive treatment for depression through online platforms. It offers group therapy sessions, individual counseling, and psychiatric support remotely, making it accessible for those who prefer or require treatment from home or have logistical challenges attending in-person sessions.

These treatment options can be used alone or in combination, depending on the severity of symptoms, personal preferences, and response to treatment. It’s important to work closely with your providers to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Regular monitoring and adjustment of treatment may be necessary to ensure optimal effectiveness in managing depression and promoting healing and overall well-being.

Treating Depression at Clear Behavioral Health

At Clear, we specialize in treating depression and other mental disorders. Our program embraces a full continuum of care, providing individuals with the highest quality depression treatment at every level of care.

If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, contact Clear Behavioral Health today to learn more about our mental health programs including residential mental health treatment for severe cases, outpatient mental health programs for ongoing support, and virtual IOP serving all of California. Don’t let depression get in the way of living the life your deserve, give us a call to get started on healing your depression today.

References:

1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Depression Basics. Nih.gov. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression on July 1, 2024
2. CDC. (2023, October 13). Mental health conditions: Depression and anxiety. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html on July 1, 2024
3. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, November 30). Clinical Depression (Major Depressive Disorder): Symptoms. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24481-clinical-depression-major-depressive-disorder on July 1, 2024
4. WHO. (2023, March 31). Depressive disorder (depression). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression on July 1, 2024
5. WHO. (2023, March 31). Depressive disorder (depression). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression on July 1, 2024
6. Witters, D. (2023, May 17). U.S. Depression Rates Reach New Highs. Gallup. https://news.gallup.com/poll/505745/depression-rates-reach-new-highs.aspx on July 1, 2024
7. National Institute of Mental Health. (2023, July). Major Depression. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression on July 1, 2024
8. Types of depression: Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. (2020, January 7). Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327429#types on July 1, 2024
9. Harvard Health Publishing. (2022, January 10). What Causes depression? Harvard Health; Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-causes-depression on July 1, 2024
10. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2016, June). Table 9, DSM-IV to DSM-5 Major Depressive Episode/Disorder Comparison. Nih.gov; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519712/table/ch3.t5/ on July 1, 2024