Depression is a mental health disorder commonly defined by feelings of sadness, despair, and worthlessness. Symptoms of depression can include changes in appetite (notable weight loss or weight gain), loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, chronic fatigue, and — in severe cases — thoughts of death or suicide. Depression can seem overwhelming and, when left untreated, can get worse over time. However, depression is treatable, and there is help available.
West Pines Behavioral Hospital, located in Westminster, Colorado, is an industry leader in depression treatment. Our trained staff is dedicated to providing compassionate treatment for adolescents ages 13-17 and adults age 18 and older that is tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring that patients receive the support and resources necessary for improved mental well-being.
Signs & Symptoms of Depression
Initially, depression may be hard to diagnose. It’s easy to associate some of the signs and symptoms of depression with other mental health or physical ailments. However, there are some common symptoms that could indicate that a person has depression, including:
- Persistent sadness: A constant feeling of sadness or emptiness
- Loss of interest: Diminished interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Social withdrawal: Pulling back from healthy friend and family relationships
- Changes in appetite: Eating more or eating less, resulting in significant weight loss or gain
- Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much
- Fatigue: Decreased energy or chronic exhaustion
- Difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering details
- Pessimism: Automatically assuming the worst; unable to feel hopeful
- Substance abuse: Using drugs and alcohol to escape feelings of reality
- Feelings of worthlessness: Excessive guilt or feeling unworthy
- Irritability: Increased irritability or frustration, even over small matters
- Thoughts of death: Recurring thoughts of death or suicide
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression is the first step toward seeking help and finding a path to healing. Take that step and know that there is hope for a brighter tomorrow. Don’t hesitate to seek the care you deserve.
If you are feeling suicidal or believe that your life is in immediate danger, dial 911.
What Causes Depression?
Depression is a multifaceted condition that can impact anyone, regardless of gender, age, culture, or socioeconomic background. However, there are certain risks that may raise an individual’s chance of developing depression.
- Genetics: A family history of depression increases a person’s likelihood of developing the condition.
- Biochemical changes: Imbalances in neurotransmitters and hormones can play a role.
- Trauma or abuse: Past trauma, abuse, or significant life stressors can trigger depression.
- Chronic illness: Ongoing medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, can elevate risk.
- Substance abuse: Alcohol or drug misuse is closely linked to depression.
- Social isolation: Lack of social support and feelings of loneliness can contribute to depression symptoms.
- Major life changes: Events such as divorce, job loss, and the death of a loved one can trigger depressive episodes.
- Personality traits: Certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem and high levels of negativity, may increase vulnerability.
- Age and gender: While depression can affect anyone, certain groups, such as women and older adults, may be at higher risk.
West Pines Behavioral Hospital is a depression treatment center. We understand depression, which is why we take a holistic approach to offering care that is tailored to your needs — mental, emotional, social, and physical. We’re here for you and ready to get to the root of your symptoms of depression so that you can find healing and hope in each new day.
Potential Effects of Depression
Left untreated, depression can take a toll on an individual’s well-being. And just like the signs and symptoms of depression vary from person to person, the effects can also differ. Examples of the effects of depression include:
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Low self-worth
- Substance abuse and addiction
- Financial difficulties
- Decreased performance at work or school
- Emergence of additional mental health concerns
- Physical health problems, such as chronic pain, a compromised immune system, or sleep issues
- Tension in personal relationships
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
It’s important to recognize that these are just a few of the effects of depression. This condition can be all-encompassing, impacting virtually every aspect of your life. It’s important to seek treatment and get the help you deserve.
Depression Statistics
Despite being widespread in our society — reaching almost epidemic proportions — depression is treatable. However, there’s a stigma around depression and mental health in general, leading some to believe that seeking help for a disorder or illness is a sign of “weakness.” This is simply not true! Depression is a serious mental health condition that, without appropriate care, can result in life-threatening circumstances.
If you’re struggling with depression, it’s important that you understand that you’re not alone. The following statistics are provided by the World Health Organization:
- Globally, an estimated 5% of adults suffer from depression, which could mean a number up to 280 million individuals.
- Globally, more than 10% of pregnant women and new mothers struggle with depression.
- Every year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide, making it the fourth-leading cause of death among individuals ages 15-29.
We know that seeking help can feel daunting. Acknowledging that you’re struggling with depression and that it’s beyond your control can be challenging. However, by reaching out for support today, you can start a healing journey that opens the door to a hopeful future.
Benefits of Depression Treatment
You might feel all alone as you battle depression, but you don’t have to. At our depression treatment center, you can take your life back and find lasting peace.
Seeking treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and promote your overall well-being. Here are just some benefits of depression treatment:
- Improved mood: Treatment can help alleviate feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
- Enhanced energy levels: Many individuals experience increased energy and motivation.
- Better sleep: Treatment often leads to improved sleep quality.
- Increased functionality: People may have an enhanced ability to perform daily tasks at work or school.
- Stronger relationships: Treatment can improve interpersonal skills and strengthen connections with family and friends.
- Reduced anxiety: Many find a decrease in anxiety symptoms when depression is treated.
- Healthier coping mechanisms: Therapy can teach effective strategies for managing stress and distressing emotions.
- Improved physical health: Depression treatment can lead to better overall physical health and a stronger immune system.
- Greater life satisfaction: Individuals often report an increased sense of fulfillment and happiness.
- Enhanced self-esteem: Treatment can help build self-worth and confidence.
- Long-term resilience: Learning tools to manage depression symptoms can lead to greater resilience against future challenges.
- Lower risk for self-harm: Effective treatment can reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors and may prevent people from engaging in self-harm.
At West Pines Behavioral Hospital, we recognize that you are unique. We will develop a personalized treatment plan just for you. Your mental, emotional, social, and physical well-being are our top priority. Let us assist you in taking the next steps toward healing.
Why Choose Our Depression Treatment Center in Westminster?
At our depression treatment center, we place the individual first. We offer an array of care, all with you at the center. When you come to us for depression treatment, you may receive the following services:
- Basic medical care (if needed)
- Daily meetings with a psychiatrist
- Medication management services, with medications being prescribed by licensed psychiatrists and administered by registered nurses
- On-site detox services (if needed)
- Group therapy led by licensed or master’s-level therapists that may cover topics such as coping skills, trauma, triggers, and healthy boundaries
- Experiential therapies, including art therapy, led by recreational therapists
At West Pines Behavioral Hospital in Westminster, Colorado, you can expect to receive care and ongoing support from trained professionals in a comfortable setting.
You’re not alone. We’re here for you and ready to come alongside you and champion you on your healing journey. We know that suffering from depression can be overwhelming, but we’ve helped others just like you.
At our depression treatment center, we are dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health. We believe that with the right guidance and support, healing is possible. Our compassionate team is here to provide you with the tools and resources you need to regain control of your life so that you can rediscover joy. You don’t have to face this challenge alone. Reach out to us today, and let’s take the first step together toward a brighter, healthier future.
This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at West Pines Behavioral Hospital.