Depression

There are various types of depression. Some are triggered by certain events, while others are classified according to the severity of their symptoms. Some individuals have brief depressive episodes, while others have severe symptoms for longer periods of time.  

The following are some of the more common types: 

• Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder: Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a mood disorder characterized by severe temper outbursts, combined with a consistently irritable or angry mood. DMDD generally affects children and adolescents, with the typical age of onset being before the age of 10. Children are most commonly diagnosed with DMDD between the ages of 6 and 18.  

• Major depressive disorder: Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a debilitating illness characterized by depressed mood, a loss of interest in things a person once enjoyed, poor cognitive function, and sometimes additional symptoms, such as altered sleeping or eating patterns. MDD affects approximately twice as many women as men and 1 in 6 individuals throughout their lifetime. Symptoms can linger for at least two weeks and impair one’s ability to do daily tasks. 

• Persistent depressive disorder: Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) is a type of depression that lasts for an extended period. One may lose interest in typical everyday activities, feel hopeless, be unproductive, have low self-esteem, and have an overall sense of inadequacy. These feelings can linger for years and seriously disrupt one’s relationships, school, work, and daily activities. Those who have persistent depressive disorder may find it difficult to be cheerful, even on happy occasions.  

• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is the most severe type of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The week before a woman gets her period, they may experience various mental and physical symptoms. During this time, PMDD can cause severe irritation, depression, or anxiety. Symptoms often go away two or three days after menstruation begins. 

• Substance/medication-induced depressive disorder: Substance/medication-induced depressive disorder can lead to a noticeable shift in one’s mood, including feelings of depression or a lack of excitement for daily activities and hobbies one used to enjoy. These symptoms begin during or shortly after the use of a particular substance/medication, or during withdrawal from the substance/medication. 

Depression is more than feeling sad or drained for a few days. Everyone feels sad sometimes, but depression is characterized by feelings of chronic sadness that last for weeks or months. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. It can strain a person’s relationships, make it difficult to work and maintain good health, and, in extreme situations, lead to suicide. Each year, depression contributes to around 40,000 suicides in the United States. A recent study shows that teen and young adult depression rates are rising faster than those of any other demographic in the United States. 

Depressive episodes can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the frequency and severity of symptoms and the effect on one’s ability to function. If you have been experiencing at least five of the following symptoms for at least two weeks, you may have depression: 

• Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness 

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism 

• Feelings of discontentment, agitation, or irritation 

• Feelings of shame and helplessness 

• Disinterest or dissatisfaction in previously enjoyed activities 

• Having less energy, feeling tired, or feeling down 

• Challenges in focusing, remembering, or decision-making 

• Problems falling asleep, waking up too early, or being unable to get out of bed 

• Changes in appetite and sudden weight gain 

• Behaviors indicative of suicidal ideation or attempting to end one’s life 

• Aches, pains, headaches, cramps, or stomach issues that do not go away despite medical intervention 

It’s also important to rule out general medical concerns that can lead to depression symptoms, such as thyroid issues, brain tumors, or vitamin deficiencies.  

A depression diagnosis requires the presence of several persistent symptoms. However, even if just one or two of these symptoms are present, they can still cause significant suffering and should be addressed. 

Depression can affect anyone, including those whose lives appear ideal. There are several possible causes of depression, including: 

• Biochemistry: Variations in certain chemicals in the brain can contribute to depression symptoms. 

• Personality: Individuals who are easily overwhelmed by stress or are generally pessimistic appear more likely to suffer from depression. 

• Genetics: Depression can be inherited and is more prevalent in individuals who have a family history of the disorder. 

• Environmental factors: Some people may be more vulnerable to developing depression if they’ve lived through traumas like neglect, abuse, or extreme poverty. 

• Physical health: Health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, for example, can lead to depression, and vice versa. 

Depression impacts nearly every aspect of a person’s life, affecting their emotional, physical, and social well-being.  

Emotionally, individuals may experience intense sadness, irritability, or a sense of detachment, leading to a lack of motivation and interest in activities they once enjoyed. Many people also struggle with feelings of guilt or worthlessness, blaming themselves for the challenges they are facing. This self-criticism can create negative thought patterns that are difficult to break. Depression may also bring about irritability or anger, often directed inward but sometimes outward toward loved ones, further straining relationships. This emotional turmoil can create a cycle that makes it harder to seek help, amplifying the impact on a person’s overall well-being. 

In addition to emotional effects, depression can have physical effects. It often leads to feelings of fatigue, changes in appetite and weight, sleep disturbances, and unexplained aches and pains. Cognitive function can also be impacted, making it harder for one to concentrate, remember things, or make decisions. 

Socially, depression may cause individuals to withdraw from friends, family, and activities they once enjoyed, leading to isolation and strained relationships. If it is left untreated, depression can significantly reduce one’s quality of life and increase the risk for developing other health concerns. 

If you’re experiencing any of these types of symptoms, seeking depression treatment at Turning Point Centers in Sandy, Utah, can provide the professional support and guidance needed to begin your journey to healing and improved mental health. 

If you’re considering depression treatment, it’s important to know that you’re not alone — depression affects more people than many realize, and help is available. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 280 million people worldwide have depression, with approximately 8.3% of U.S. adults affected each year. Depression can impact individuals from all backgrounds, but it is most common among young adults ages 18-25 and is nearly twice as prevalent in women as in men. Factors such as social isolation, financial stress, and other life pressures can worsen depression symptoms, which is why it is important to address it as quickly as possible. 

While depression is widespread, it is treatable. Many people who seek depression treatment, including therapy, medication, and support groups, find significant relief and experience an improvement in their quality of life.  

Effective and compassionate care is available, and finding the right depression treatment for you is an important step toward healing. By receiving depression treatment, individuals can begin to restore hope, build resilience, and work toward a brighter future.  

Depression is highly treatable when the right tools and support are in place. At Turning Point Centers in Sandy, Utah, we believe in treating the whole person and not just their symptoms. We create a personalized depression treatment plan for each client, ensuring the delivery of care that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.  

We use evidence-based therapies that have proved effective in treating depression, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). These modalities can help clients understand their symptoms and make positive changes in their behaviors and thinking patterns. Common methods of treating depression include medication, psychotherapy, and often a combination of the two. 

During treatment, clients can receive essential medical care and participate in daily group therapy sessions. These sessions may include process groups and psychoeducational groups, covering topics such as trauma recovery, coping skills, boundary-setting, and self-esteem. We also offer family therapy when needed, and medication management services are available for clients who have medication included in their treatment plan. 

Our dedicated team members closely monitor each client’s progress, adjusting their personalized care plan as necessary to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our goal is to provide a safe, welcoming environment where clients can focus on healing and moving toward a brighter future. 

An important aspect of our personalized depression treatment is our detailed discharge planning, which supports a smooth transition either to a lower level of care or back to the community. A client’s discharge plan outlines the next steps in their treatment journey, which ensures a continuity of care. 

At Turning Point Centers, we are committed to providing consistent support throughout the healing process, helping to instill hope, build self-confidence, and empower clients to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. 

Seeking treatment for depression can offer significant benefits, both in the short term and throughout a person’s life. Professional support, whether through therapy, medication management, or a combination of the two, can help clients have fewer depression symptoms, restore their emotional balance, and enhance their ability to function. At Turning Point Centers in Sandy, Utah, our dedicated team teaches coping strategies that can enable clients to better manage stress and overcome the negative thought patterns often associated with depression. Many individuals find that after getting depression treatment, they can rebuild relationships, rediscover passions, and approach life with renewed purpose and energy. 

Effective treatment not only addresses the symptoms of depression but also helps clients develop resilience and emotional well-being. Therapeutic methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy can assist individuals in recognizing and reframing unhelpful thought patterns, leading to healthier, more positive perspectives.  

When appropriate, medication can help restore balance to brain chemistry, making it easier for clients to engage in therapy and daily activities. Group therapy also provides a supportive community, helping to alleviate the isolation that often accompanies depression.  

Finding the right depression treatment begins with selecting a location that offers personalized care and treats the whole person, not just their symptoms. At Turning Point Centers in Utah, we follow a tailored approach to treatment, offering therapy, medication management (as needed), and medical care while also focusing on fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness. From the admissions process to aftercare planning, our goal is to provide individualized care that helps you make the most of your time with us. 

During treatment, you will receive high-quality care in a comfortable and supportive environment nestled against the Wasatch Mountains. Our intimate, boutique treatment setting creates a feeling of psychological safety and well-being, providing an ideal environment for relaxation and healing.  

While taking the first step toward seeking depression treatment can feel overwhelming, it is an essential part of moving toward a brighter future. Call our admissions team at any time to learn more about our services and discover how we can support you or a loved one. We are here to listen and to guide you on your personalized journey to healing. 

This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Turning Point Centers.