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Depression affects people every day. For many, depression is a normal part of life, particularly for those living with seasonal depression. Unfortunately, when depression takes hold, it’s difficult to ask for help. Learning the signs and symptoms can help you know when it’s time to seek depression treatment and how to talk to loved ones about depression and mental health. Discussing mental health as a family can normalize treatment and destigmatize depression and other mood disorders.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, know you are not alone. If you need help talking to a loved one about depression treatment, the team at NuLife Behavioral Health’s Massachusetts clinic can help. Our clinic provides flexible dual diagnosis treatment for mental health and addiction, including depression treatment. Call us now at 888.568.2057 to learn more about how to talk about depression and when to seek treatment.
What Is Depression?
Unlike sadness and other feelings, a depressed mood persists and affects a person’s whole life. Depression is a common mood disorder characterized by a prolonged depressed mood. Many people describe the feelings and sensations of depression as “numbness” rather than sadness, hopelessness, or lack of motivation. For many, depression can be debilitating, making it hard to reach out for help. Like all mood disorders, depression symptoms are different for everyone. The most common types of depression include:
- Psychotic depression: Depression with psychosis.
- Postpartum depression: Depression after giving birth.
- Dysthymic disorder: Also known as persistent depressive disorder.
- Seasonal affective disorder: Also called SAD, seasonal depression occurs when days are shorter and people receive less natural Vitamin D from sunlight.
- Bipolar disorder: A mood disorder that oscillates between manic and depressive episodes.
Because everyone’s experience of depression is different, depression treatment is the best way to get help and develop tools for long-term success.
Common Signs of Depression and How to Talk To Loved Ones About Treatment
Because depression is complex and difficult to talk about, it’s hard to spot the signs of depression. Spotting the signs and symptoms can help loved ones know when it’s time to start a conversation about depression. Signs include:
- A depressed mood is impeding daily life
- Self-isolation
- A lack of motivation
- A lack of self-care
- Prolonged isolation.
- Trouble sleeping
- Self-harm
- Intense guilt and shame
- Feeling hopeless
These are only some signs of depression. Drastic changes in mood, major life changes, and changes in health can also be signs it’s time to seek help. If someone you love shows signs of depression, know they are struggling to ask for help. Begin by providing non-judgment conversation through questions. Share your own experience of depression and low mood, and ask how you can support them. Work together to come up with treatment options and plans.
Start Depression Treatment Today in Massachusetts
When discussing mental health with loved ones, always lead with compassion, practice active listening, and share your own experience to destigmatize mental health. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, you are not alone. We can help. At NuLife Behavioral Health’s Massachusetts outpatient clinic, we meet clients no matter where they’re at in their mental health journey. Our clinic provides individualized, dual diagnosis treatment for mental health and addiction for clients across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Our outpatient treatment programs provide IOP and PHP treatment alongside referrals for residential and aftercare programs with our trusted partner clinics. No matter where you are in your recovery, we can help you and your loved ones thrive.
Learn More About Your Depression Treatment Options Today
Struggling to talk to loved ones about depression? We can help. Call us now at 888.568.2057 to speak with an intake specialist and get started today.
