At Symmetry Counseling in Texas, we understand how difficult it can be to live with depression and bipolar disorder. That’s why we have developed comprehensive therapy services for individuals who are struggling with these mental health conditions. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where our clients can explore their feelings and gain insight into their own lives.
What Is Major Depressive Disorder?
The National Institute of Mental Health defines major depressive disorder as a condition marked by a combination of symptoms. These symptoms can lead to significant distress and disrupt daily life, affecting a person’s ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and take pleasure in activities they once enjoyed.
In order to be diagnosed with major depression, a person must experience either a depressed mood or loss of interest for at least two weeks, and this cannot be due to the direct effects of a substance, drug abuse, medications, a medical condition, or within two months of the loss of a loved one. While a single episode of clinical depression may occur in a person's lifetime, it is more common for it to recur multiple times.
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, contact Symmetry Counseling in Texas today to learn about our depression counseling and treatment options.
What Is Bipolar or Manic Depression?
Bipolar or Manic Depression is a mental health condition that is characterized by alternating periods of mania and depression. During manic episodes, people may experience intense highs and lows, including extreme elation, irritability, and racing thoughts. During depressive episodes, people may experience feelings of hopelessness and sadness, as well as changes in appetite, sleep, and energy levels. People with bipolar disorder may also experience psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions. Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition that requires ongoing treatment and support.
What Causes Depression?
Depression is a multifaceted condition that can arise from various factors, such as serious medical conditions, significant life changes, or a family history of the disorder. Individuals experiencing depression may struggle with persistent feelings of sadness and loneliness, even when there is no clear cause. Some common factors that contribute to depression include:
- Abuse: Experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in the past can increase the likelihood of developing depression later in life.
- Certain Medications: Certain prescription drugs, such as those used to treat high blood pressure, may elevate the risk of depression.
- Conflict: Depression can stem from personal conflicts or disagreements with family members or friends.
- Death or a Loss: While grief following the loss of a loved one is a natural response, it can also heighten the risk of developing depression.
- Genetics: A family history of depression may increase susceptibility, though the specific genetic mechanisms remain unclear.
- Major Events: Even positive life changes, such as starting a new job, graduating, or getting married, can contribute to feelings of depression. Similarly, major transitions like moving, job loss, financial struggles, divorce, or retirement can also trigger emotional distress.
- Other Personal Problems: Challenges like social isolation caused by other mental health conditions or being excluded from family or social circles can contribute to depression.
- Serious Illnesses: Depression can sometimes accompany a major illness or develop as a response to it.
- Substance Abuse: Almost 30% of individuals struggling with substance abuse also experience major or clinical depression.
Get Help Today With Symmetry Counseling in Texas
At Symmetry Counseling, we believe that counseling can be an effective way to help alleviate the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorders. Through our counseling sessions, we will help you to gain a better understanding of the causes of depression, recognize specific triggers, and identify unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. We will also provide a safe and supportive atmosphere for you to explore relationships and past experiences, find better ways to cope with and solve problems, reduce feelings of hopelessness and anger, and increase a sense of happiness and control in your life.
If you believe you are living with depression or bipolar disorder, please contact us today to learn more about our counseling services. We are here to help you.