Navigating a Diagnosis of Depression

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Depression is more than feeling sad or finding yourself in a post-weekend slump (not to discount either, of course)—rather, it’s a serious mental health condition that often requires treatment with medication, psychotherapy, and/or lifestyle changes. 

So while serious, it is highly treatable. 

Unless a trained mental health professional, one cannot assume someone is, or isn’t, struggling with depression as symptoms can vary from one person to the next. But taking the time to listen and lend a hand to someone in need can have a colossal impact on society’s perception of mental health and the likelihood of someone experiencing symptoms seeking treatment. 

With rates of depression and suicide on the rise, especially among young adults, it’s critical to spread awareness about the warning signs and symptoms. 

Here, we’ll discuss what depression can look (and feel) like as well as when you should seek treatment. Navigating a diagnosis of depression can produce a whirlwind of physical and emotional pain, creating a state of chaos between the mind and body, but with the right treatment plan, balance can be restored.  

What is Depression? 

Per the American Psychiatric Association (APA), 60 million adults (approximately 7% of the U.S. population) have experienced at least one major depressive episode in the last year. 

Depression can affect anyone regardless of age, gender identity, ethnicity, race, or socioeconomic status; however, some groups are more at risk. 

For example, women are 70% more likely to experience depression than men, and young adults between the ages of 18-25 are 60% more likely to experience a depressive episode than adults aged 50 and older (NAMI, 2017). 

On average, an initial episode of depression occurs in a person’s late teens to mid-20s, but even then, depression can arise at any point. While some experience one episode of depression during their lifetime, others can experience recurring episodes.

Symptoms 

Whether you’re concerned about the mental health of someone close to you or are unsure if you are experiencing symptoms, here are some warning signs to look out for. As always, consulting with a mental health professional is always advised. 

Symptoms of depression vary from one person to the next due to one’s age and other factors, but most will generally experience changes in day-to-day functioning for two weeks or longer. 

Symptoms can manifest physically and emotionally and may include: 

  • Changes in sleep and/or appetite 

  • Difficulty concentrating/making decisions/remembering things

  • Difficulty regulating emotions

  • Withdrawn behavior/lack of interest in usual activities

  • Tiredness and decreased energy

  • Feelings of hopelessness or guilt

  • Slowed speech and or physical movement

  • The onset of somatic complaints

  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal thoughts

    (APA, 2020).


Diagnosis

For a diagnosis of major depression, a mental health professional will need to determine if symptoms have persisted for two weeks or longer and include five or more symptoms found in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR)—with one of those symptoms being either 1) depressed mood or 2) loss of interest and pleasure. 

Symptoms must also cause significant distress or impairment in daily functioning, must not be related to the effects of substances or a medical condition, and must not be better explained by another mental health disorder. Additionally, a history of mania or hypomania should not be present. 

There are also many other types of depression and features (i.e., anxious distress, mixed features, melancholic features, atypical features, psychotic features, catatonia, peripartum onset, seasonal pattern) your mental health provider will screen for. 

Types of depression and other conditions with depressive symptoms include: 

  • Persistent depressive disorder

  • Bipolar disorder

  • Cyclothymic disorder

  • Seasonal affective disorder

  • Psychotic depression

  • Peripartum (postpartum) depression

  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) 


Risk Factors 

Though difficult to identify the exact cause of depression, many factors can contribute. 

Risk factors can include brain chemistry, hormones and other medical conditions, genetics, personality, and other environmental factors (APA, 2020).

Treatment Methods

To provide the most appropriate level of care, mental health professionals will use a variety of tools to screen for, diagnose, and measure the effectiveness of treatment. Depending on the severity of the individual’s symptoms and how they interfere with daily functioning, psychotherapy, medication, hospital or residential treatment, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may also be discussed. 

Prevention 

Although there is no sure way to prevent depression, there are some common practices that may help manage symptoms, decrease stress, and promote overall well-being.  

  • Focusing on self-care practices and activities that bring joy

  • Connecting with loved ones

  • Learning about depression and other mental health conditions

  • Maintaining a routine that prioritizes sleep, nutrition, and exercise 

  • Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs

  • Limiting screen time and social media use

  • Paying attention to warning signs

  • Asking for help 


When to Seek Help

If you notice changes pertaining to your mental health, consider speaking to a professional who can assess and connect you to the most appropriate treatment. Though navigating a diagnosis of depression is challenging in more ways than one, remember you’re not alone. With the help of psychotherapy, self-care, and medication assistance, most individuals will notice a decrease in symptoms and episodes. 

For the best treatment outcome, make sure to be open and honest with your provider and with your support system.

Contact us today

At Hope Mountain Behavioral Health, a specialized team of therapists can help address your symptoms and restore your well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. There is hope for a happier and healthier tomorrow. 

Contact us by email: admin@myhopemountian.org

Call us directly to start the intake process: 719-465-0900

Insurance we accept: Medicaid, subscription plans, self-pay
*Additional case management services offered to Medicaid holders

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2020, October). What Is Depression? https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression. 

American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787

Depression. NAMI. (2017, August.). https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Depression. 

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2018, February 3). Depression (major depressive disorder). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007.

Mental Health, Tips, DepressionJeff Mowerydipression, diagnosisComment