Depression is a severe mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by a range of emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms, depression can significantly impact daily functioning and overall quality of life. Studies indicate that depression is also substantially more prevalent in the LGBTQ population than it is among straight and cisgender individuals.
Although depression manifests differently in each individual, specific symptoms can help identify the condition. Learning more about the common signs of depression can help a person’s loved ones and family members get them the help they need sooner rather than later.
If you see that a loved one is struggling with hopelessness and despair, our depression treatment program in Hollywood, California may be able to help. At La Fuente Hollywood, we understand how difficult it is to live with the feeling of helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness caused by depression. Contact our caring and compassionate team of professionals using our convenient contact form or call 888.903.9898 for support and guidance to help cope with depression.
Common Signs of Depression
Depression frequently affects all areas of a person’s life, resulting in emotional, physical, and cognitive signs and symptoms.
Emotional Symptoms
Some common symptoms of depression affect people’s emotional health, such as:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Irritability or mood swings
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Anxiety
- Hopelessness and pessimism
However, the most dangerous of these symptoms is the development of suicidal thoughts or ideation. Severe depression may result in thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or preoccupation with death.
Physical Symptoms
Other common symptoms of depression affect people’s physical health, such as:
- Fatigue and low energy
- Sleep disturbances
- Appetite and weight changes
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Decreased libido
Sometimes, people struggling with depression may also have unexplained aches and pains, like headaches, backaches, or other physical discomforts.
Cognitive Symptoms
Depression can also affect people’s cognitive health with symptoms such as the following:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Negative thought patterns
- Indecisiveness
There may also be other behavioral symptoms that accompany depression. Some individuals may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances to cope with the pain and distress they experience, which can worsen their depression and often results in addiction.
How Is Depression Treated?
Once the signs of depression are apparent, it’s best to seek help from a professional as soon as possible. Luckily, there are several ways that depression may be treated. However, it is good to remember that this condition has no surefire cure. Like many other mental health disorders, management is the best approach currently available.
Medication and psychotherapy or talk therapy are two main ways depression is treated. Antidepressant medications can help alleviate depression symptoms by regulating the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are responsible for mood regulation.
Psychotherapy can help members of the LGBTQ community with depression understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and develop healthy coping strategies. Common types of psychotherapy used to treat depression include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – This approach focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors to improve mood and functioning.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) – Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has been adapted to treat depression, particularly in cases involving self-harm or suicidal ideation. DBT combines CBT with mindfulness techniques, emphasizing the development of emotional regulation skills, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
- Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) – REBT focuses on identifying and challenging irrational beliefs, which can contribute to negative emotions and maladaptive behaviors. The main goal of REBT is to help individuals replace irrational thoughts with more rational, adaptive ones, leading to healthier emotional responses and more effective coping strategies.
The choice of therapy depends on the individual’s specific needs, preferences, and the severity of their depression. Often, a combination of therapies may address different aspects of the individual’s experience. Working with a mental health professional can help determine the most appropriate and effective treatment for each person.
Learn More About the Depression Treatment Program at La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center
If you or someone you know has been battling depression, La Fuente is here to help. We offer comprehensive programs to treat depression and addiction in members of the LGBTQ community. Contact La Fuente Hollywood today at 888.903.9898 or reach out to us online to speak with someone from our caring and compassionate team of professionals.
