by Meaghan Diaz
Depression
Depression is characterized by symptoms such as feeling pessimistic, hopeless, worthless, anxious or guilty. People with with depression may lose interest in activities that they once found pleasurable, such as spending time with friends or family. They may experience unintentional changes in appetite, weight, and sleep patterns (such as insomnia or oversleeping). They may feel easily fatigued or experience a decline in overall energy level despite receiving a full night’s sleep. Other symptoms that are common include irritability, restlessness, and suicidal thoughts. Physical symptoms include headaches, chronic pain, and digestive issues. A person with depression may also have difficulty getting motivated, focusing on tasks and making decisions. It is normal for one to experience these symptoms occasionally, however if these symptoms occur more often than not, for a period of 2 weeks or longer, it may be a form of clinical depression. Types of depression have varying and overlapping symptoms. Depression is a complex disorder and is may be caused by a multitude of unique life factors.
“Should I seek counseling for depression?” If you have been experiencing any of the above symptoms, seek help by speaking with a therapist.
“What are common depression treatment options?” Common depression treatment options include:
- Psychotherapy (types of psychotherapy include cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, behavioral, and rational-emotive)
- Antidepressant medication
Discover more depression resources in UB’s Wellness Directory.