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Depression

Definition

Depression is a feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of energy. It is often a response to loss such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or moving away from friends and family. In some cases, a long-term condition is associated with a biological cause.

Signs and Symptoms

Mild depression can affect nearly everyone at one time or another and will usually last just a few days. Clinical depression can be mild or severe and last anywhere from a few weeks to several years. It is more than just “feeling blue.” The following are some warning signs that a more serious from of depression may have developed:

  • Changes in sleeping patterns or eating habits.
  • Withdrawal from friends and family.
  • A loss of energy and lack of interest in usual activities.

Recommended Course of Treatment

Begin by talking about your feelings with someone you trust. If the depression is caused by the prospect of taking on an overwhelming task, break the project into several smaller jobs that you can easily handle. Also, push yourself to get involved in activities you enjoy. If the above suggestions fail to lift your spirits, contact Serenity Mental Health Services to speak with a counselor trained in dealing with depression. For people suffering from depression that is a reaction to a personal loss, only four to ten sessions of counseling may be needed. Other patients with more severe or longer term depression may benefit from counseling and medication prescribed by a psychiatrist or physician.

about us

About

Diana Smith, PhD, LPC-MH owns and operates Serenity Mental Health Services and is licensed by the National Board of Certified Counselors. License number is LPC-MH2025 and she follows the ethical guidelines described by the NBCC found at their web site www.nbcc.org/webethics2. Diana is a member of the National Board for Certified Counselors, Certification Number 43911. In addition, she is also a member of the American Counseling Association, Member ID# 5140627. Online counseling can help you right now. Research has made it clear that this manner of offering therapy is effective and those who’ve experienced it have said they would seek it out again.

Dr. Diana is an APA (American Psychological Association) EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) approved Therapist in Training.