What Is Depression?
Depression, often referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of despair, sadness, and irritability. This condition can lead individuals to lose interest in daily activities and activities that once brought them joy. Depression is not limited by age and can affect anyone. Research indicates that approximately 20% of Americans experience severe depressive episodes annually. Recognizing the challenges of seeking help for depression, our team at Serenity Mental Health Centers in Lakewood, CO is dedicated to empowering patients to comprehend their diagnosis, discover suitable treatments, and receive ongoing support.
How Is Depression Treated?
Depression manifests in various forms, including postpartum depression, clinical depression, and treatment-resistant depression. Identifying the specific type of depression is a crucial initial step in treatment. While talk therapy and medication are commonly prescribed and effective for many individuals, our team acknowledges the uniqueness of each patient. What works for one may not necessarily work for another. In addition to traditional treatments, we offer innovative alternatives like TMS therapy and ketamine IV therapy. By attentively listening to each patient's emotions and concerns, we tailor depression treatments to address their individual needs while upholding their wellness objectives.
What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Depression?
Depression is a multifaceted mental health disorder that affects one's mood, thoughts, and ability to function daily. It often arises from a mix of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
The common signs of depression include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or sleeping too much
- Fatigue and low energy
- Trouble concentrating
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Suicidal thoughts
Several potential causes of depression include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Imbalances in brain chemistry
- Hormonal changes
- Ongoing stress or trauma
- Underlying medical conditions
What Are the Risk Factors for Depression?
Depression can arise from a mix of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Contributing risk factors include:
- Family history of mental illness: A genetic predisposition to depression or related disorders
- Neurotransmitter imbalances: Disruptions in brain chemistry that affect mood regulation
- Hormonal fluctuations: Changes due to pregnancy, postpartum shifts, menopause, or thyroid disorders
- Chronic stress or major life changes: The impact of divorce, job loss, financial struggles, or the death of a loved one
- Past trauma or abuse: Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse experienced at any stage of life
- Long-term medical conditions: Chronic pain, heart disease, diabetes, or other persistent illnesses
- Substance dependence: Alcohol or drug use that disrupts brain function and emotional stability
- Social isolation or strained relationships: A lack of meaningful connections and support systems
- Disrupted sleep patterns: Poor sleep habits that affect mental and emotional health
- Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle that contributes to poor overall well-being
Depression Reviews
Dr. Jennifer French is first provider I have fully been able to trust with my mental health. She is caring, attentive, compassionate, and she listens! She possesses all qualities that are an absolute necessity for providing mental healthcare. She is my top recommendation to my friends and family. I truly enjoy our appointments together. She is honest, validating, and non-judgmental. If you are looking for an incredible place, that is relaxing, but encompasses kindness and integrity - Serenity is your place!
This is one of the most fantastic places for Mental Health! From all the amazing front office Girls to the Nurses that make you feel like you're family. Best of all Dr . Froehlich helped me so much I feel like a Different person Mentally and Emotionally! There's also Rob who helped me with payments for Ketamine and TMS treatments not just a manger he's a Friend! Thank you to Serenity for giving me my Life back I will always be Grateful !
Serenity offers a wide variety of therapies for mental health. The staff is warm and welcoming, and Dr. Gower is empathetic, open, and very comfortable to talk to. He believes in trying the path of least invasive treatment which I believe is the healthiest way to approach mental health in the beginning. My appointment relieved a lot of my anxiety.
Dr. Gower has been wonderful. I would never have even have known that TMS and ketamine treatment were an option. It’s absolutely revolutionized my life. He has also helped me manage my medication while listening to my concerns and taking everything I say seriously. It’s indescribable to have a doctor that doesn’t gaslight me. He is also really great about working with my other doctors, the synchronicity is phenomenal. All of the nurses and other staff have also been incredible and so kind. The do so much work to make sure I am getting the most out of my treatments. This is the only place I’ve found that will work with you on doing a payment plan that actually makes sense. And doesn’t overwhelm you with debt. And they make it a breeze. Overall, I just feel really blessed to have found Serenity Mental Health Centers.
In the time where people should be considering their mental health options, Serenity Mental Health Centers has been a great option for me and I will continue to go there for mental health support
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
What separates depression from normal sadness?
Occasional sadness is a typical part of the human experience. However, depression is much more than just periodic sadness. It involves persistent or severe sadness along with numerous other symptoms. These symptoms can include a loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities, feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, excessive guilt, reduced energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, disrupted sleep patterns, physical pains like headaches and body aches, and possibly suicidal thoughts.
Can kids have depression?
Yes, kids can have depression. It's a common misconception that depression only affects adults, but children can suffer from it, too. In children, the signs might manifest differently and can include irritability, changes in eating and sleeping habits, persistent sadness, withdrawing from friends and activities they once enjoyed, and a drop in energy. It's essential for parents, caregivers, and educators to notice these symptoms and seek medical assistance to address them.
What are the potential risks of untreated depression?
Untreated depression can cause significant complications, such as worsening physical health, diminished ability to perform at work or in social environments, substance abuse, and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and actions. These risks stress the importance of early recognition and intervention to prevent long-term psychosocial and health issues.
Find the Joy of Living Again
To those grappling with depression or its symptoms, it's crucial to remember that you are not alone. The overwhelming and frightening emotions that accompany depression can be daunting, but our team at Serenity Mental Health Centers is here to support you every step of the way. We strive to empower our patients with knowledge about their condition, enabling us to tailor treatments to their unique needs effectively. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow by reaching out to Serenity Mental Health Centers. We're here to help you navigate the path to healing and well-being. Contact our office in Lakewood, CO today.