We all have moments when we are feeling a bit down, which we often refer to as depression. The low feelings of discouragement and sadness typically fade and allow us to continue our routines. However, this is not the same as clinical depression. While they may share some of the same features, depression goes past feeling melancholy and includes symptoms that last for an extended time, often interfering with daily activities. As depression progresses and becomes more serious, physical symptoms become more present.
Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. According to the American Psychiatric Association, depression affects an estimated one in 15 adults (6.7%) in any given year. Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, can occur at any time, but is likely to first appear in the late teens to mid-20’s. There is also a high level of heritability (approximately 40%) when first-degree relatives (parents/children/siblings) have depression.
There are several forms of depression, each slightly different.
Depression is a mood disorder that negatively impacts your feelings. While there are many symptoms of a depressive disorder, everyone will not experience the same ones. Symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day, and may include:
Men with depression are more likely than women to abuse substances, display anger, and engage in risky behavior because of the disorder. Young adults and teens will often withdraw from friends and family, have more difficulty concentrating, feel guilty or worthless, and feel restless.
It is not fully understood what causes depression, but research suggests a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors trigger symptoms.
Depression, even the most severe cases, is among the most treatable of mental disorders. Between 80% and 90% percent of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment. Professional treatment and therapy can help people diagnosed with depression overcome symptoms and take back their lives.
At Yellowbrick, our treatment philosophy is guided by research findings that show that enduring success is facilitated by working alongside emerging adults coping with actual life experiences in “real time,” with a professional presence supporting the development of skills required to navigate the challenges of life. We combine treatment with active participation within the community to sustain and strengthen personal confidence and establish educational and vocational accomplishments that anchor the individual. In addition to interpersonal support from peers and staff, education and skills-based approaches to facilitating recovery from depression, Yellowbrick employs multiple interventions derived from neuroscience research.
These include:
If you or your loved one is suffering from depression, contact Yellowbrick today. Our team is here and ready to help on the journey to recovery.
Yellowbrick collaborates with adolescents and emerging adults, ages 16-30's, their families and participating professionals toward the development and implementation of a strategic “Life Plan.” An integrative, multi-specialty consultation clarifies strengths, limitations, and risks, and defines motivations, goals and choices.
A mental health condition that’s characterized by intense shifts in mood including both manic and depressive episodes.
People living with Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD, experience episodes of depression and sadness that are debilitating to daily life.
Those living with anxiety disorders experience high levels of anxiety and stress that interfere negatively with daily life.
A mental health issue in which a person’s cognitive function is impaired, resulting in symptoms like experiencing challenges with conducting speech, reading and writing, and behavior.
Mental health disorders that negatively affect a person’s behaviors, thought patterns, and function. People diagnosed with these disorders experience challenges with managing relationships and understanding various situations.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition that people can develop as a result of experiencing traumatic situations, characterized by symptoms including flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and more.
A mental health condition that is characterized by specific symptoms of forgetfulness and lack of concentration, which makes it challenging to complete necessary tasks.
Mental health conditions that interfere with a person’s eating habits, thought patterns, and behaviors in negative ways.
A mental health disorder diagnosable with the DSM-5 that is characterized by both obsessions and compulsive behaviors.