The most basic definition of the word depression is low mood, a state of being sad, and/or feeling down. In this sense, being depressed at times is a natural part of a person’s reactions to difficult or disappointing situations.

At other times though, depression can become a more persistent and pervasive way of experiencing life. This can result from a number of factors including: stressful and/or traumatic events; poor self-esteem linked to difficult life experiences; genetics; physical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer; and/or other psychological difficulties such as excessive anxiety, substance abuse or dependence, or an eating disorder.

The primary types of depression or mood difficulties include:

• Major Depression: significant sadness, irritability or tension nearly every day for at least a two week period of time causing marked impairment in functioning and accompanied by symptoms such as: loss of energy; a substantial change in appetite and/or sleep pattern; difficulty concentrating with indecisiveness; loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities; feelings of worthlessness; and/or suicidal thoughts.
• Dysthymia: some degree of sadness, irritability or tension most days over a two year period of time with similar symptoms as Major Depression but to a less severe extent.
• Bipolar Spectrum Disorders (Bipolar I; Bipolar II; Cyclothymia): the occurrence of one or more manic, hypomanic, or mixed episodes often accompanied by periods of Major Depression. Mania involves: distinct period of an elevated, expansive, and/or irritable mood; reduced need for sleep; increase in activity level; restlessness; impulsive behavior such excessive spending or hypersexuality; racing thoughts; grandiosity; hallucinations; and/or delusions. Symptoms must exist for a period of at least one week to qualify as a manic episode. Hypomania involves similar symptoms as mania, but to a less severe and less impairing extent.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder: essentially the same condition as Major Depression but limited to certain periods of the year such as Fall and Winter when there is less sunshine available.
• Post-Partum Depression: similar symptoms as with Major Depression which occur in women who have recently given birth typically within the first few months after delivery.

Our therapists utilize a comprehensive approach to helping our clients to overcome the impact of clinical depression in their lives. We tailor therapy to the specific needs of each client’s situation, incorporating some combination of the following strategies:

• Development of assertiveness, distress tolerance, and/or emotion regulation skills
• Development of healthy lifestyle changes
• Development of more effective ways of thinking about yourself, your relationships with others, and events in your life
• Resolution of painful emotional experiences linked to traumatic events
• Referral, if necessary, for a medication evaluation (available at our practice) 

Please contact our office at 724-934-3905, or via our online Contact Form, for more information or to schedule an appointment.