Depression

What’s the difference between depression and sadness or grief?

Sadness is a normal part of life and something everyone will experience at some point. Grief is also a natural and expected reaction to loss. Depression is different. While it might include feelings of sadness, the symptoms of depression linger and go far beyond what is considered a “normal” bout of the blues. 

Some symptoms of depression include:

• Lack of energy and bouts of fatigue
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Eating more or less than usual
• Loss of interest in activities that once brought joy
• Problems with interpersonal relationships
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Episodes of purposeless physical activity, like pacing

Often, the signs of depression develop slowly, which can make it challenging to determine when to reach out for assistance. Be open to the feedback offered by those close to you, and take action if you suspect you are experiencing depression. 

When should I seek help with depression?

Occasional periods of sadness — even intense — are usually nothing to worry about. That is especially true when there is a clear cause for these feelings, like the end of a marriage, a job loss, or the death of a loved one.

When you notice that symptoms linger without any apparent cause or when they begin to interfere with your ability to complete regular daily routines, it’s time to seek professional help. 

You should never feel embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help. Depression is incredibly common, and it is also a treatable condition. 

Thoughts of death or suicide are the most serious symptom of depression and should be considered a medical emergency. Seek emergency treatment immediately if these thoughts develop. 

What does depression treatment look like?

Treating depression begins with a thorough assessment. If you are already taking medication to manage depression or another mental health issue, professional medication management is essential. Many drugs can interact negatively with other medicines, including drug therapy for a chronic health condition like hypertension. 

Talk therapy can go a long way toward helping you manage depression. You can build resilience and better coping skills by learning how to evaluate your thought patterns and find healthier ways to approach how you’re feeling. 

For people who have struggled with depression for a long time and found little relief through traditional treatment options, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a great option. This non-invasive treatment uses controlled magnetic fields to alter how cells in your brain regulate emotional responses. 

If you’d like more information, booking a visit at MIU Center is as easy as a phone call or a few moments online, so don’t delay.