Outpatient Depression Treatment Program in New Jersey
Millions of people in the United States live with a mental health condition. The symptoms of mental health disorders may affect a person’s feelings, relationships, functioning, and more.
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that about 21 million people experience a depressive episode each year. Approximately one in six will have a depressive episode in their lifetime.
Depression is treatable. People struggling with depression symptoms can find testing, treatment, resources, and support at Renewed Light Mental Health. Contact our treatment specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition. It is a common and serious disorder affecting millions of people each year. The symptoms of depression can impact a person’s daily functioning, emotions, physical health, and more. While some people think of depression as a type of sadness, this isn’t the case. Depression is a severe mental health disorder with emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms. In some cases, depression can be life-threatening. There are several types of depression. Here is an overview of different types of depression.
Major depressive disorder
People with major depression experience symptoms of depression for two weeks or more. People may experience:
- Low mood
- Fatigue
- Sleep changes
- Loss of interest in activities
- Low energy
The symptoms of major depressive disorder may affect people’s sleep, work, relationships, behaviors, and more.
Persistent depressive disorder
Some people refer to persistent depressive disorder as “high-functioning depression” or “dysthymic disorder.” Persistent depressive disorder causes less-intense depressive symptoms that last for two years or more.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) causes depressive symptoms that follow seasonal patterns. People with SAD typically experience worsening depression symptoms during the winter months. Symptoms usually resolve during the Spring.
Perinatal depression
Perinatal depression refers to depression that develops during pregnancy or in the postpartum period.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD) refers to depression and other symptoms that occur before menstruation. People with PDD may experience disruptive symptoms, including sadness, irritability, tension, and hopelessness.
Bipolar disorder
People with bipolar disorder typically experience periods of mania and depression. Treatment for bipolar disorder may be different than treatment for other forms of depression.
Contact the Renewed Light Mental Health specialists to learn more about different forms of depression. You may also reach out to our team to learn about treating depression or to explore your treatment options.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression
Many people use the terms “depression” and “sadness” to mean the same things. However, depression is a complex mental health condition with a wide range of symptoms. Understanding the symptoms of depression can help you identify and treat this serious condition.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Low mood
- Feeling sad a lot of the time
- Sleep difficulties like not being able to fall asleep, waking up too early, or sleeping too much
- Hopelessness
- Guilt or shame
- Irritability
- Agitation or restlessness
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach pain, muscle aches, digestive issues, etc
- Thoughts of death or suicide
People with depression and other mood disorders must seek treatment as soon as they recognize the signs. Like medical conditions, mental health conditions require comprehensive treatment.
