Millions of people struggle with depression every day, and some do not know that help is available. Depression can affect all parts of life, from a job or scholastic performance to relationships with loved ones and even strangers. If you or someone you care about is experiencing signs of depression, know that compassionate support is available. To learn more about the quality depression treatment center at The Right Step Hill Country in Wimberley, TX, call 1.844.675.1628 or by online message.
What Are Some Common Depression Symptoms?
A depressive episode can happen once, every so often, or be a recurring part of your life. Whatever the specifics, talking to a doctor or therapist is the best way to determine your underlying diagnosis. That said, here are a few common signs of depression:
- Feeling yourself to be of little to no value and engaging in negative self-talk frequently
- Issues with concentration and memory
- Difficulty making decisions
- Overwhelming sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness, potentially leading to suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Frequent crying spells
- Delayed speech, cognition, or even muscular movement
- Experiencing markedly less pleasure in activities that once made you happy
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Marked increase or decrease in appetite or food cravings, which may be accompanied by related weight loss or gain
- Unexplainable somatic pain such as headaches or back soreness
It’s also worth noting that while depression is often associated with feeling “down,” it can manifest in many ways. For example, some people coping with depression actually experience arousal symptoms such as agitation, irritability, outbursts, or anxiety. Again, there’s no replacement for getting a medical professional to weigh in on your exact symptomatology. This will set the stage for finding the best course of treatment for you.
What Treatments Are Available for Depression?
Fortunately, because depression is common and has been studied for decades, there are a variety of effective treatments available. It’s important, firstly, to identify whether depression is co-occurring with another concern, such as a substance use disorder.
In many cases, the relationship between depression and substance use is quite complex. The two concerns typically feed into one another. In such cases, it’s key to seek out a treatment center like Hill Country that practices dual diagnosis. This means both substance use and mental health concerns are addressed simultaneously.
Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma-informed care can also be a game-changer in treatment if a depression diagnosis stems from a past adverse event. Such events include things like childhood abuse, bullying, or PTSD from military service. This form of care pays special attention to how a client’s past impacts their present and takes extra steps to avoid re-traumatizing during treatment. Creating safety and slowly regrowing clients’ sense of agency are, instead, major goals. A peer support component may also be included. This can help clients regain the healthy boundaries and capacity for interpersonal trust often damaged by trauma or isolating depression.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a widely practiced and strongly evidence-backed form of talk therapy, can also help substantially with depression. This form focuses on identifying inaccurate or ultra-negative thoughts and reframing them so that your self-talk supports rather than sabotages you. Especially when coupled with carefully monitored antidepressant medication, CBT can be effective in treating depression.
Learn More About Quality Depression and Substance Abuse Treatment at Hill Country Near Austin Today
Don’t wait any longer to get the help you or your loved one deserves in managing depression. The caring team at The Right Step Hill Country is standing by to help, and you can learn more about signs of depression and how our treatment center can help. Contact us today by calling 1.844.675.1628 or messaging us online. Our Wimberley, TX, facilities are conveniently located between Austin and San Antonio.