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What does depression feel like? Depression feels and looks different for everyone who's affected by it. Seeking treatment is always the best choice. Therapy treatment for depression can help you feel like yourself again, so you're able to enjoy life and return to a normal level of function at work or in school. You can easily find treatment through a therapy matching service, like Advekit, today. In this article, we answer questions, such as "why is it important to treat depression?"
In order to receive effective treatment for depression, a therapist would first need to diagnose their client with the mental health disorder. This sounds simple and you might think that anyone with clinical depression would know they had the depressive disorder, condition, but this is not always the case.
Identifying clinical depression is the first step in treatment. You might go to a doctor or psychologist's office and show some depressive symptoms, such as lethargy and loss of appetite, but have no idea that these symptoms are a result of depression.
Once depression has been diagnosed, treatment can begin. Treatment for depression is different for everyone. Some common forms of treatment include talk therapy, antidepressant medication, and others.
Not treating depression is a bad idea. With an effective treatment plan, your symptoms can be managed and a full recovery is possible. Here are our top reasons why depression should be treated:
Depression is not just a psychological disorder. Did you know that major depression can lead to physical ailments, such as muscle pain, digestive issues, and sleep loss? You might not consider these to be serious problems if they last for a couple of days only, but the effects of a depressive episode can last for months or even years.
Over time, the physical issues from depression can take a serious toll on your overall health. In fact, depression can even affect the brain and cause irreversible changes. We’ve written in detail answering the question, “How does depression affect the brain?” Treating the root cause of these physical symptoms starts with treating your depression symptoms.
Did you know that people with the mental disorder are more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol? Usually, depressed individuals are more likely to develop a substance abuse problem as they try to self-medicate for their underlying untreated depression.
When people become depressed, the dopamine levels in their brain are usually very low. Dopamine is responsible for our feelings of joy and happiness. Some drugs provide a temporary dopamine boost, which is a large part of what makes these substances addictive.
Depressed individuals may turn to drugs to try and make themselves feel better. This is a slippery slope that can turn from bad to worse quickly. By treating depression early on, issues with drugs and alcohol abuse can potentially be avoided.
Some people refer to severe depression as a terminal illness because it can sometimes lead to suicidal thoughts. As depression takes hold, feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and low self-esteem can push people towards suicidal behavior. According to the World Health Organization, about one million people commit suicide each year.
Treating depression can be the difference between life and death. A depression treatment plan helps you to feel motivated to be happy again. At the most basic level, treatment can stabilize someone who has suicidal thoughts and provides them with the support and tools they need.
Treating severe depression is just as critical as treating any other health concern. Remember, depression can worsen and potentially become fatal if left untreated. Treating depression is the best way to ensure that the care you need will be given. Learn more about the effects of depression and the different treatment options available. Find the right match for a therapist on Advekit today.
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