What Are the Signs of Depression?

Depression is a common part of life. While the occasional depressed mood is normal, prolonged, continued, or cyclical depression is not. Unfortunately, a lack of mental health education, access to mental health care, and stigmas prevent many people from seeking depression treatment. Knowing the signs and symptoms of depression can help you and your loved ones know when it’s time to seek treatment for depressive disorders.

Depression is treatable. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, the team at NuLife Behavioral Health is here to help. Our dual diagnosis programs provide compassionate depression treatment for clients across Massachusetts. With a range of accessible outpatient program options, we have the program for your schedule and needs. Call us now at 888.568.2057 to learn more about the benefits of depression treatment and learn how NuLife Behavioral Health can help your family thrive.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a common mood disorder characterized by a depressed mood. Unlike sadness and other feelings, a depressed mood affects a person’s whole life. Many describe the feelings and sensations of depression as a “numbness” rather than sadness. For many, depression can be debilitating. Like all mood disorders, depression symptoms and experiences are different for everyone. Five of the most common types of depression include:

1. Psychotic depression: Depression accompanied by psychosis.
2. Postpartum depression: Depression after giving birth.
3. Dysthymic disorder: Also known as persistent depressive disorder.
4. Seasonal affective disorder: Also called SAD, seasonal depression occurs when days are shorter and people receive less natural vitamin D from sunlight.
5. Bipolar disorder: A mood disorder that oscillates between manic and depressive episodes.

Because everyone’s experience of depression is different, depression therapy is the best way to begin treatment for long-term health.

Common Signs of Depression and When to Seek Professional Help

Because depression is complex and difficult to talk about, it can be hard to spot the signs of depression. Here are five signs it’s time to get professional help with depression treatment:

1. A depressed mood is impeding daily life: Self-isolation, a lack of motivation, and a lack of self-care can all be debilitating signs of depression.
2. Prolonged isolation and lack of motivation: These signs make it hard for people to seek treatment when they need it most.
3. Trouble sleeping: The less sleep we get, the more our mental health suffers. If depression is affecting sleep, it’s time to consult a therapist. Sleep medication and supplements cannot cure depression.
4. Self-harm: Self-harm and suicidal ideation are often the most alarming signs of depression and can make it difficult to ask for help. If you see signs of self-harm, call a professional now.
5. Intense guilt and shame: Depression can cause unexplained and unrealistic guilt and shame as well as feelings of hopelessness.

These are only some signs of depression. Drastic changes in mood, major life changes, and changes in health can also be signs that it’s time to talk to a professional about depression treatment options.

Treat Depression for Better Mental Health in Massachusetts Today

Depression is manageable. Dual diagnosis for mental health can help people unpack past trauma, understand current behaviors, and properly treat depression and co-occurring disorders for optimal health. Professional depression treatment is always the safest, most effective approach for balanced mental health.

At NuLife Behavioral Health, we understand the complexity of depression. Our dual diagnosis programs help clients develop the tools they need to manage mental health and addiction recovery without leaving home. Our flexible programs provide PHP and IOP care alongside residential treatment referrals to help families across Massachusetts gain control of their lives and thrive. If someone you love needs depression treatment, the team at NuLife Behavioral Health can help. Our warm, friendly therapists at NuLife Behavioral Health meet clients where they are for accessible, personalized depression treatment.

Call NuLife Behavioral Health to Learn More About Depression Treatment

Don’t let depression control your life. Call us to learn more about the benefits of depression treatment at NuLife Behavioral Health. Reach our friendly staff now at 888.568.2057 to learn more about our programs and get started today.