Depression therapist Services - near Des Moines, Iowa

Think you might have depression?

It is treatable.
You are not alone and the good news is depression is treatable by a depression therapist. When you have depression, it’s more than feeling sad. Intense feelings of sadness and other symptoms, like losing interest in things you enjoy, may last for a while. Depression is a medical illness, not a sign of weakness. The following signs and symptoms might indicate need for treatment of depression.

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Signs and Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating
• Trouble remembering details
• Fatigue and decreased energy
• Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
• Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
• Overeating or appetite loss
• Persistent aches or pains
• Headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings
  

What Causes Depression?

There are many causes for depression and the presentation of symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. What I know is that any life event (positive or negative) can lead to clinical symptoms of depression.

Family conflict, moves, loss of job, or job change, history of child abuse, sexual abuse, or emotions abuse make someone more likely to experience depression.

I also know that our genetics play a significant role in the likelihood you’ll experience depression. In addition, substance use disorders (past or current) can also impact degrees of depression. In my experience, about 80 percent of those with substance use disorders have an undiagnosed mental health complication that has been predominately untreated.

The Relationship Between the client and Therapist Matters.

Therapy can help people identify the causes of their concerns and to deal with negative thought processes that contribute to feelings of hopefulness or depression.  Therapy can help you manage your symptoms and assist you in communicating to others what you need.

However, research on effectiveness of psychotherapy is variable and has shown that people getting better is highly dependent on the relationship and connection they have with their therapist treating depression.  I believe there are many ways a person can get better and many interventions that can be considered.  More than anything, people get better from feeling safe, heard, and supported.

Learn more about our mental counselor / therapy services.

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