Clinical depression is a medical condition that goes beyond everyday sadness. Depression can cause severe, long-lasting symptoms and often impairs a person’s ability to perform routine tasks. The disorder is the most common psychiatric disorder worldwide. In the United States, approximately one in six people experiences a bout of clinical depression psychotherapy during their lifetime.
Treating depression is important because people with untreated depression have a lower quality of life, a higher risk of suicide, and worse physical outcomes if they have a medical condition in addition to depression. In fact, people with depression are almost twice as likely to die as people without the condition. What’s more, depression affects not only people who suffer from the disorder but also those around them.
What are the types of depression (5 Effective Options to Consider)?
Clinical depression (major depressive disorder): A diagnosis of major depressive disorder means that you have felt sad, depressed, or worthless most days for at least two weeks and at the same time have other symptoms such as trouble sleeping, loss of interest in activities or changes in appetite. . This is the most serious form of depression and one of the most common.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD): Persistent depressive disorder is mild or moderate depression that lasts at least two years. The symptoms are less severe than those of major depressive disorder. Healthcare providers used to call PDD dysthymia.
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD): DMDD causes intense, chronic irritability and frequent angry outbursts in children. Symptoms usually begin at the age of 10 years.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): With PMDD, you have symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) along with mood symptoms, such as extreme irritability, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms improve a few days after your period starts, but they can be severe enough to interfere with your life.
Depressive disorder due to another medical condition: Many medical conditions can create changes in your body that cause depression. Examples include hypothyroidism, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, and cancer. If you can treat the underlying condition, depression usually improves as well.
How Common is Depression?
Depression is common. Researchers estimate that nearly 7% of adults in the United States suffer from depression each year. More than 16% of American adults (about 1 in 6 people) will experience depression at some point in their lives.
However, researchers believe these estimates are underestimates, as many people do not seek medical help for depression symptoms and do not receive a diagnosis.
What are the Symptoms of Depression?
The symptoms of depression can vary slightly depending on the type and can range from mild to severe. In general, symptoms include:
- Feeling very sad, desperate or worried. Children and adolescents with depression may be more irritable than sad.
- Not enjoying the things that used to give me joy.
- Being easily irritated or frustrated.
- Eating too much or too little, which can cause weight gain or loss.
- Problems sleeping (insomnia) or sleeping too much (hypersomnia).
- Having low energy or fatigue.
- Having difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
- Experiencing physical problems such as headache, stomach pain, or sexual dysfunction.
- Having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
If you or a loved one is thinking about suicide, dial 988 on your phone to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Someone will be available to help you 24/7.
What Causes Depression?
Researchers do not know the exact cause of depression. They think that several factors contribute to its development, including:
Brain chemistry: An imbalance of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, contributes to the development of depression.
Genetics: If you have a first-degree relative (biological parent or sibling) with depression, you are about three times more likely to develop the condition than the general population. However, you can have depression without a family history.
Stressful life events: Difficult experiences, such as the death of a loved one, trauma, divorce, isolation, and lack of support, can trigger depression.
Medical conditions: Chronic pain and chronic illnesses such as diabetes can lead to depression.
Medications: Some medications can cause depression as a side effect. Substance use, including alcohol, can also cause depression or make it worse.
When should I see my healthcare provider about depression?
If you have symptoms of depression, see a healthcare provider or mental health professional. They can give you an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatment options.
If you started treatment for depression and it doesn’t work or you have unpleasant side effects, talk to your provider. They may recommend a different treatment plan.
A note from the Cleveland Clinic
Depression is a common condition that affects millions of people each year. Anyone can experience depression, even if there doesn’t seem to be a reason for it. The good news is that depression can be treated. If you have symptoms of depression, talk to your healthcare provider. The sooner you get help, the sooner you can feel better.
How to Find Therapy for Depression
Depression is a common mental health condition that can be very debilitating, sometimes making you feel like you can’t get out of bed or even perform basic tasks for yourself or others, but it is also treatable. Exploring ways to find a therapist is often the first step toward recovery. Using an online therapist directory can help narrow your search to find therapists with specific training and insurance coverage. Most therapists offer online therapy, so it can be challenging to find a therapist who can see you in person.
Finding a therapist you like, trust, and relate to is more important than the specific type of depression therapy you receive. Research consistently shows that a strong therapeutic bond is the most important factor determining whether or not someone benefits from therapy. Please request a brief consultation call before making your first appointment. Most therapists offer these 10- to 20-minute consultations for free.
When should I see my healthcare provider about depression?
If you have symptoms of depression, see a healthcare provider or mental health professional. They can give you an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatment options.
If you started treatment for depression and it doesn’t work or you have unpleasant side effects, talk to your provider. They may recommend a different treatment plan.
A note from the Cleveland Clinic
Depression is a common condition that affects millions of people each year. Anyone can experience depression, even if there doesn’t seem to be a reason for it. The good news is that depression can be treated. If you have symptoms of depression, talk to your healthcare provider. The sooner you get help, the sooner you can feel better.
The bottom line
When you suspect your depression is getting worse, talking to telehealth for mental health professionals can help you get the support you need to start feeling better.
