Depression is a serious mental health condition that is prevalent in the United States and beyond. According to the Centers for Disease Control, an estimated 20% of Americans will experience depression over the span of their lives.
If someone experiences sadness, emptiness, sleep disturbances, irritability, concentration difficulty, changes in appetite, restlessness, a lack of interest/pleasure in daily activities, excessive guilt or worthlessness, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts most of the time for at least two weeks, the individual might meet the criteria for major depression. Depression impacts one’s ability to function at work and school or in relationship with friends and family.
Women Are Twice as Likely as Men to Experience Depression
According to the National Institutes of Health, things that put women at risk of developing depression involve reproductive, genetic, or biological factors; and interpersonal factors. Moreover, women juggling work and family and women who are single parents experience increased stress that may result in symptoms of depression.
Treatment for Depression
If you feel sad or depressed, seek a mental health professional or doctor who can provide you with a diagnosis and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. Oftentimes, talk therapy can help you gain insight into your symptoms and develop strategies to overcome depression. In some cases, a combination of antidepressants and talk therapy are indicated to shorten your recovery time and ensure longer lasting effects of treatment.
Connect with a therapist who’s specialized in women’s mental health today.