Anyone who has battled clinical depression knows how difficult it can be to overcome. The neurochemical effect of depression casts a negative shadow over the ways in which the sufferer interacts with the world from home to work to community and hobbies. The pervasive aspect of clinical depression can make it difficult for loved ones to recognize the warning signs of depression
If you or someone you care about is struggling with depression and seeking major depression treatment in CA, it is worth learning more about the warning signs of depression that may be hard to identify. Reach out to the mental wellness experts at True Life Center online to learn more today, or call us at 866.420.1792.
Identifying the Warning Signs of Depression
Mental health professionals have known for decades that depression is distinct from less complicated conditions like sadness. Sadness is a perfectly normal and even healthy reaction to disappointment, loss, and difficulty. Depression, on the other hand, is a mental health issue that affects an individuals’ mood — much as sadness does — but also affects their perception of themselves, of others, and their situation. Because it is the result of a chemical issue in the brain, depression does not have a specific cause, and it is also a chronic condition, meaning that unlike sadness, it does not dissipate over time.
Being able to identify some of the more hard-to-see warning signs of depression can be extremely important, whether you are worried that you or someone close to you may be clinically depressed. Some of the most important of these are:
- Changes in appetite or weight – Many individuals increase their intake of food when they are depressed, while others lose their appetite entirely. This may lead to significant weight loss or weight gain.
- Changes in sleep patterns – Both insomnia and hypersomnia (sleeping more than usual) have been associated with clinical depression.
- Alcohol or drug use – People who are depressed are more likely to use alcohol or drugs to distance themselves from their feeling of loneliness and hopelessness.
- Loss of concentration – Short-term memory issues and issues of concentration are common, if less-well-known, warning signs of depression.
- Irritability or anger – Although we tend to associate depression with sadness, it can present as annoyance, irritation, or outright anger.
This list is, of course, far from comprehensive. Individuals who wish to identify depression should also bear in mind that there are far more apparent warning signs of depression, including social isolation, a loss of optimism, a sudden loss of interest in hobbies and pastimes, and fatigue.
Quality Mental Health Treatment in CA
At True Life Center, we understand that depression takes a toll that is emotional and psychological, but also physical and social. This is why we make a point of integrating our approach to depression treatment in our La Jolla, CA facility, customizing to the unique needs of each of our patients, and ensuring that they have the tools they need to manage their condition and live their best lives.
At the core of our practice at True Life Center is an innovative approach called “neurobiological integration,” which involves regulating and streamlining the way in which the mind and body communicate. Among the treatment modalities that we regularly utilize in treating depressions are:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Psychiatric evaluation and treatment
- Family Therapy
- Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Acupuncture
- Mindfulness practices
- Yoga therapy
Contact True Life Center Today
True Life Center is committed to helping individuals find and express their authentic self. When suffering is deep and enduring, understanding the path forward brings comfort and hope. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive map for long-term recovery and optimal health. We listen carefully to you and your loved ones to understand and co-collaborate in the creation of your True Life Recovery Plan. Finding treatment for mental illness may seem challenging right now, but it’s only a phone call away.
If you are worried that you or someone close to you is exhibiting the warning signs of depression, don’t hesitate. Reach out to Dr. Roybal and the compassionate, expert team of mental wellness professionals at True Life Center today by calling 866.420.1792.
