What is depression?
Most individuals will experience a period of sadness at some point in their lives. However, there is a difference between feeling the emotion of sadness and being diagnosed with clinical depression. Typically, prior to a diagnosis of depression a person may feel melancholy, worthlessness, hopefulness, and even helplessness — almost daily for at least two consecutive weeks.
If you are experiencing depression, you may no longer enjoy activities that used to bring you joy. You may also struggle to get out of bed, have difficulty finding energy, withdraw from others, and/or have frequent crying periods. It’s important to reach out as soon as these feelings begin to interfere with your life.
Our compassionate and caring team is here to help you navigate the following symptoms:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping or insomnia
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Irritability
- Persistent sad or empty feelings
- Suicidal thoughts or ideation
Types of depression
There are several types of depression disorders. The most common types include:
Major depressive disorder (MDD)
This type of depression is characterized by low mood, lack of interest in activities, sleep and weight changes, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, trouble concentrating, and thoughts about suicide or death.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)
This is a chronic depressive disorder that lasts more than two years, with potentially only brief relief periods for two months or less.
Postpartum depression
This type of depression frequently occurs after childbirth due to hormonal fluctuations.
Bipolar disorder
A person with this depression disorder experiences episodes of an abnormally elevated mood (mania) and depressive episodes.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
This type of depression is similar to MDD, but it involves depression taking place due to seasonal changes causing a disturbance in the normal circadian rhythm of the body.
Treatment for depression
One of the common hurdles of depression is putting a stop to negative thinking patterns and turning them into healthy and positive thoughts. Negative thought patterns can be a symptom of depression, or in others, it can make the condition worse. When these thoughts and feelings go unaddressed, they create maladaptive feedback loops — simply making it harder to start feeling better.
Our clinical team can act as your guide, helping you navigate through these tough emotions and challenging times. If your family physician or psychiatrist has prescribed medication, therapy can complement your medical treatment plan and help you achieve mental wellness.
Through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and our many other modalities, we provide the support you need to begin making positive changes in your life. There’s no better time to start than right now.
Frequently asked questions
Depression
What causes depression?
Many factors can contribute to the development of clinical depression. These include abuse (sexual, physical, emotional), specific medications, internal conflict, genetics, major life events, serious illness, and/or substance abuse.
Who is at risk for depression?
Individuals between the ages of 45 and 65 years are more likely to experience Major Depression. Those with less education or economic stability may be more likely to also experience depression. Others that are at a higher risk further include those with a family history of depression.
How long does depression last?
This depends on the individual, as well as the type of depression and the underlying causes. However, a major depressive episode will typically last two weeks. Chronic or more severe depression may last many years. Yet, seeking out help can reduce the length of time you experience depression, and help you discover strategies to cope when episodes of depression do happen.
Are depression and anxiety connected?
Depression and anxiety commonly happen together. Fortunately, they both have very similar treatment strategies. At the Bhatia Psychology Group, our team can help you overcome depression and anxiety — helping you pave the way toward a happier and healthier life.
Will I see results right away?
Every person is different. Therefore, some individuals respond to treatment right away while for others, it may take some time. We always encourage our clients to stick with the therapeutic process and remain patient.
What forms of therapy can help with depression?
At Bhatia Psychology Group, we offer cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) – both of which are effective ways to combat and overcome depression. We also offer a number of other evidence-based treatment and modalities, depending on your unique situation.