Depression/Bipolar

At Symmetry Counseling, we understand the profound impact that depression and bipolar disorder can have on an individual's life. These mental health challenges can significantly affect mood, energy levels, and overall well-being, making it difficult to lead a fulfilling life. However, you don't have to face these struggles alone. Our compassionate counselors specialize in providing support and guidance to individuals dealing with depression and bipolar disorder. Below, we will delve into the critical aspects of our approach to addressing depression and bipolar, offering a path toward emotional wellness and healing. Learn more and get in touch with our team of online counselors to find counseling for depression and bipolar today!

Understanding Depression and Its Effects

Depression is a mood disorder that goes beyond feeling sad. It can result in ongoing feelings of hopelessness, diminished interest in previously enjoyed activities, alterations in appetite or sleep habits, and, in some cases, thoughts of self-harm. Our counselors work closely with individuals experiencing depression, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to express their emotions and explore the underlying causes of their distress.

What Is Major Depressive Disorder?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, major depressive disorder is a condition characterized by various symptoms that interfere with a person's ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and participate in activities they once enjoyed.

It's normal to feel sad, lonely, or hopeless occasionally, but clinical depression is much more severe. It can interfere with your ability to function normally. While some people may experience a single episode of clinical depression in their lifetime, it often recurs, affecting individuals repeatedly over time.

In addition, with major depression, one of the symptoms must be either depressed mood or loss of interest. The symptoms should be present daily or for most of the day or nearly daily for at least two weeks. Also, the depressive symptoms must cause clinically significant distress or impairment in functioning. The symptoms 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.

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, contact Symmetry Counseling today to learn about our depression counseling and treatment options.

What Is Chronic Depression or Dysthymia?

Chronic depression, also known as dysthymia, is marked by a persistent low mood lasting for two years or more. It’s less intense than major depression and it typically doesn’t debilitate the individual. If you have dysthymia, you might also experience episodes of major depression at some point in your life.

Causes of Depression

Have you ever wondered what causes clinical depression? Perhaps you have been diagnosed with major depression, and that’s made you question why some people get depressed while others don’t.

Depression is a highly complex condition that can arise for various reasons. Some individuals develop depression as a result of a serious medical illness. Others may have depression with life changes such as a move or the death of a loved one. Others may have a family history of depression that increases their risk. Individuals with this may experience feelings of depression, accompanied by overwhelming sadness and loneliness, often without an apparent cause.

What Are the Main Causes of Depression?

There are a number of factors that may increase the chance of depression, including the following:

Abuse: Experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in the past can contribute to the development of depression later in life.
Certain Medications: For example, some drugs used to treat high blood pressure can increase your risk of depression.
Conflict: Depression can stem from personal conflicts or disagreements with family members or friends.
Death or a Loss: The sadness or grief experienced from the death or loss of a loved one, while a natural response, can also elevate the risk of developing depression.
Genetics: A family history of depression can raise the likelihood of developing the condition, as it's believed to be passed down genetically. However, the exact mechanism by which this occurs is still not fully understood.
Major Events: Even positive life changes, like starting a new job, graduating, or getting married, can trigger depression. Similarly, stressful events such as moving, losing a job or income, going through a divorce, or retiring can also lead to depressive feelings.
Other Personal Problems: Problems such as social isolation due to other mental illnesses or being cast out of a family or social group can lead to depression.
Serious Illnesses: At times, depression occurs alongside a major illness or may be a response to it.
Substance Abuse: Almost 30% of individuals with substance abuse issues also experience major or clinical depression.

How Is Seasonal Depression (SAD) Different From Other Types of Depression?

Seasonal depression is also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is a type of depression that recurs annually, generally beginning in the fall or winter and lasting until spring or early summer. It is more than just the typical "cabin fever" or "winter blues."

A less common form of SAD, called "summer depression," starts in late spring or early summer and typically ends in the fall.

What Is Bipolar Depression or Manic Depression

Bipolar disorder is also known as manic depression. It is a complex mood disorder that involves alternating between episodes of clinical depression and periods of extreme euphoria or mania. Bipolar disorder is classified into two subtypes: bipolar I and bipolar II.

With bipolar I disorder, patients have a history of at least one manic episode with or without major depressive episodes.

With bipolar II disorder, patients have a history of at least one episode of major depression and at least one hypomanic (mildly elated) episode.

Navigating Bipolar Disorder's Highs and Lows

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, including episodes of depression and periods of mania or hypomania. These mood shifts can be disruptive to daily life and relationships. Our specialized counseling services for bipolar disorder aim to help individuals manage these highs and lows, develop coping strategies, and maintain stability in their emotional well-being.

Signs of Depression and Bipolar

Some of the common signs of depression and bipolar disorder may include changes in sleep or appetite, feelings of sadness or guilt, difficulty focusing or making decisions, irritability or anger outbursts, low energy levels, suicidal thoughts, racing thoughts during manic episodes, and restlessness. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.

Tailored Treatment Plans

We recognize that each individual's experience with depression and bipolar disorder is unique. Our counselors create customized treatment plans that address the specific needs and challenges of each client. Through evidence-based therapies, medication management when appropriate, and psychoeducation, we empower individuals to gain insights into their conditions and equip them with the tools to cope with the emotional complexities they face.

Trust Our Compassionate Team

Depression and bipolar disorder can be challenging to navigate, but you don't have to face them alone. At Symmetry Counseling, our dedicated team of counselors is here to support you on your journey to emotional wellness and healing. By understanding the complexities of depression and bipolar disorder, creating tailored treatment plans, and promoting self-care and support systems, we strive to empower individuals to reclaim control of their lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or bipolar disorder, don't hesitate to reach out to one of our online therapists today!