Depression is a complex condition that affects many walks of life. No matter what race, gender, social class, or religion you may be, you could be one of the 6.8 million American adults who suffer from depression. What causes depression, and what are the best depression treatments? We will answer these questions and more in the guide below.
Potential Causes of Depression
Depression can develop in many different ways. For some, it comes about after a traumatic event. For others, it gradually develops over time. Here are some potential causes of depression:
- Stress
- Traumatic experiences
- Verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- The loss of a loved one
- Certain medications
- Relationship conflicts
- A family history of depression
- Addiction (or depression can lead to addiction)
- Major life transitions (new job, moving, divorce, etc.)
- Other mental health conditions, such as anxiety
- Chronic pain or illness
Because depression is such a personal experience, there are other situations that may lead to depression. Your mind interprets experiences in a unique way, and that interpretation plays a large role in developing depression. Through depression counseling, you can learn how to change your thought patterns to reduce depression symptoms in the future.
How to Treat Depression, No Matter the Cause
Despite the many causes of depression, there are also tested and proven methods for depression treatment. This may include counseling, medication, or a combination of the two. Depression counseling gives you a chance to discuss experiences from your past to find solutions in the present. You can learn what triggers your depression and how to control your reactions.
Depression therapy provides a personalized care plan for you. Rather than following generic advice for depression treatment, you can learn specific techniques that fit your lifestyle. At Perspectives Counseling Centers, we match each person with the best therapist for his or her situation. Clients receive individualized care from licensed counselors in Michigan.
If depression treatment requires medication, a psychiatrist will oversee that process. Psychiatrists have a doctorate of medicine, and they are trained to understand the body’s complex chemistry. They use that information to find the right medication and dosages for each person. Some medication-based treatments only last for a few months, while others are designed for long-term depression treatment.
If you are interested in depression counseling or other depression treatment options, contact Perspectives Counseling Centers at (248) 244-8644.