Depressive Disorder Treatment Center

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What are Depressive Disorders?

A recent report by Gallup shows that about 18 percent of US adults struggle with depression. That’s over 1 in 6, and the rate has increased by over 7 percentage points since 2015. It also shows that about 3 in 10 adults have received a diagnosis of depression at some point during their life. But why is this rate consistently growing? To understand these statistics, we need to know how mood disorders occur, what can cause them, and available treatment options.

 

Depressive disorders are a category of mental disorders that have one thing in common: persistent low mood and lack of interest in activities to the extent that it interferes with everyday functions.

 

The disorders classified in the Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders are major, persistent, and other/ unspecified depressive disorders. Based on reports by the National Institute of Mental Health, over 20 million US adults have faced a major depressive disorder.

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Risk Factors for Depression

Certain risk factors can increase your risk of developing a depressive disorder. These include:

Genetics and Family History:

Although there’s no specific gene that causes depression, some combinations of inherited genes can predispose you to develop depression. So if a closely related family member has depression, you’re twice as likely to develop the condition.

Traumatic Experiences:

Research indicates that people with major depressive disorder go are exposed to more traumatic experiences, specifically during their childhood. A study shows that over 60 percent of participants with the disorder face more than two traumatic experiences. In contrast, only about 28 percent of control group participants experienced more than two traumatic experiences.

Gender:

Females have a higher likelihood of developing major depression than males. They also experience greater rates of seasonal affective and persistent depressive disorder, as well as depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder.

Chronic Stress:

Studies have found a significant correlation between stress and depression. This could be the result of a hyperactive HPA axis and high cortisol levels, both of which are common in some mood and anxiety disorders.

Substance Abuse:

Prolonged substance abuse can make the body dependent on drugs or alcohol to produce mood-stabilizing neurotransmitters. This can lead to a higher risk of developing a depressive disorder.

Nutritional Deficiency:

Studies that compare the diets of depressed and non-depressed individuals show that low folate levels reduce your body’s response to antidepressant medication. Similarly, zinc, selenium, iron, and vitamin B12 deficiencies are common in people with depression.

Loss of a Loved One:

Grieving the loss of a loved one is a natural response, and it takes time to recover from such an event. Normally, the intense feelings surrounding the loss of a loved one reduce over time. However, some people find it more difficult to heal, which results in a depressive disorder.

Choosing the Right Type of Depression Treatment

 

At URP Behavioral Health, we offer a range of evidence-based therapies to help you manage depressive symptoms.

 

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A technique used to identify unhelpful and distorted thoughts so you can start working on changing them.
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy: Therapists use DBT to help you build coping skills and address challenges. Its main purpose is to help with emotional regulation.
  • Family Therapy: In family therapy, your therapist will counsel your loved ones on how to support you during recovery. This is important to create an environment that’s conducive to healing.
  • Group Therapy: In group therapy, you receive a supportive environment to talk about your experience. When you’re surrounded by people who can relate to your struggles, you’re less likely to feel alone.

 

Besides the above-mentioned options, you can expect individual psychotherapy and non-verbal methods, such as art and sound therapy. While different treatments are available, the therapies provided will depend on your diagnosis and individualized treatment plan.

How is Depression Diagnosed

To receive a diagnosis of depression, you need to meet the diagnostic criteria. Your psychiatrist will evaluate you to determine whether you experience the symptoms outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition.

  • Low mood throughout the day and almost every day
  • Low interest in previously enjoyable activities throughout the day and almost every day
  • Increased or decreased appetite, accompanied by noticeable weight gain or weight loss.
  • Observable and persistent psychomotor retardation or agitation
  • Loss of energy almost every day
  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness almost every day
  • Low concentration almost every day
  • Recurrent suicidal ideation without a plan or a plan to commit suicide

To get a diagnosis, you need to experience at least five of the above-mentioned symptoms, out of which at least one should be among the first two: low mood or a marked loss of pleasure. Moreover, the symptoms must result in impaired functioning and distress. Also, they shouldn’t occur due to a medical condition or substance abuse.

What Are the Types of Depression?

 

There are several types of depression, each requiring specific treatments. Here are some examples:

 

  • Seasonal depression: This type occurs in response to changes in the natural environment, reduced sunlight, and worsening weather conditions. It typically presents during winter.
  • Major depression: This severe form of the illness involves intense symptoms that often persist for an extended period. It is characterized by a loss of interest in activities, fatigue, appetite changes, sleep disturbances, and feelings of worthlessness. Treatment such as Residential Depression Treatment may be necessary.
  • Postpartum depression: Experienced by women after childbirth, this type stems from the vulnerable state following childbirth and hormonal fluctuations associated with motherhood.
  • Bipolar disorder: While not categorized as depression alone, bipolar disorder features depressive episodes alternating with periods of mania. It may involve psychosis, such as auditory or visual hallucinations or delusions.
  • Persistent depressive disorder: This chronic form of depression is typically less severe than other types but entails persistent depressive symptoms for most of the day, most days, for two years or longer.

Should I Look for Depression Treatment Centers Near Me?

 

Depression treatment centers in your vicinity may not always cater to your individual needs. Quality of treatment should be prioritized above all else. At URP Behavioral Health, our commitment is to ensure you never feel isolated or far from home. Instead, you’ll receive top-notch treatment and personalized care from our specialists, along with numerous additional benefits.

Inpatient Program for Treating Depression

For the best outcomes, it’s crucial that you attend therapy regularly and complete the entire course of sessions as prescribed by your psychiatrist. However, in some cases, symptoms can become increasingly debilitating, which can cause you to miss therapy sessions. In such situations, your psychiatrist may recommend a residential program to ensure that you stay on the path to recovery.

 

URP Behavioral Health offers an extensive residential treatment program that’s designed to help you recover in a comfortable and safe environment. Before you begin therapy, you’ll go through a medical evaluation to rule out the possibility that your symptoms are due to a medical condition of nutritional deficiency. Then, you’ll undergo psychiatric evaluation and assessments to determine your main concerns.

 

Based on the results, a team of therapists, psychiatrists, physicians, and registered nurses will prepare an individualized plan. During inpatient treatment, you can expect

  • Individual, group, and family-focused therapy
  • Medication management counseling
  • Evidence-based treatments to help you develop coping strategies
  • Alternative treatments to complement your treatment plan
  • Nutritional counseling and exercise
  • Educational support to help residents become financially independent 
  • Life skill training such as communication, vocational, and anger management 

Your psychiatrist will monitor your progress and update your treatment plan accordingly. They may recommend a longer stay at the residential program or help you transition to an outpatient model. In outpatient treatment, you visit the treatment center a few times a week to receive therapy. This is suitable for when you’re showing signs of recovery, and symptoms are no longer severe.

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Evidence-Based Therapies

 

At URP Behavioral Health, we offer a range of evidence-based therapies to help you manage depressive symptoms.

 

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A technique used to identify unhelpful and distorted thoughts so you can start working on changing them.
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy: Therapists use DBT to help you build coping skills and address challenges. Its main purpose is to help with emotional regulation.
  • Family Therapy: In family therapy, your therapist will counsel your loved ones on how to support you during recovery. This is important to create an environment that’s conducive to healing.
  • Group Therapy: In group therapy, you receive a supportive environment to talk about your experience. When you’re surrounded by people who can relate to your struggles, you’re less likely to feel alone.

Why Is Treatment at URP Behavioral Health Right for You?

 

  • Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored to address your specific challenges, whether it’s Bipolar Disorder, BPD, or another condition.
  • Experienced Team: Licensed therapists and medical professionals use evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT to help you develop effective coping strategies.
  • Holistic Practices: Incorporating mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and art therapy to enhance emotional health and reduce stress.
  • Serene Environment: Comfortable living spaces, peaceful indoor retreats, a dedicated Zen room, and secure outdoor areas for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Group and Family Therapy: Foster a sense of community and mutual support, improve communication, and strengthen family relationships.
  • Recreational Activities: Facilities like basketball courts and outdoor retreats support physical health and personal growth.
  • 24/7 Support: Compassionate staff available around the clock to provide continuous support and supervision.
  • Safety First: Advanced security systems and strict safety protocols ensure a secure environment for your recovery.

How Long Does Depression Treatment Take to Start Working?

 

Depending on the medication prescribed to you, it can take a few weeks for it to start working. During this time, it’s important that you don’t miss any doses and take the prescribed dosage. Initially, you may experience some side effects, but these wear off fairly quickly, so you shouldn’t stop taking your dosage.

What Methods Improve Treatment in Depression Rehabilitation Centers?

As a modern treatment center for mental health conditions, URP Behavioral Health adopts a holistic approach to treatment. Therefore, experts at the facility don’t just focus on treating the condition but the entire person. To heal you on a mental, physical, and spiritual level, we provide alternative therapies that work in conjunction with evidence-based treatment to improve the chances of a successful recovery.

Yoga and Meditation

There’s evidence that yoga can help boost your body’s serotonin production, which is crucial for the treatment of depression. Similarly, yoga can increase levels of GABA, a brain chemical that can induce a calming effect. It also lowers limbic system activity to curb emotional reactivity. As a result, you maintain a calm response during stressful situations.

Exercise

A common symptom of depression is fatigue and low energy levels. This can prevent you from getting enough physical activity. A growing body of evidence shows that exercise stimulates the release of endorphins that induce a feeling of well-being. Moreover, it acts as an effective coping strategy for symptoms. It’s why treatment centers like URP Behavioral Health offer different fitness-related amenities.

Animal-Assisted Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy is a complementary technique used to alleviate symptoms through interaction with an animal. According to researchers, it can result in the release of endorphins and oxytocin. Studies show that people who received animal-assisted therapy scored lower on depression than people who only received conventional psychotherapy.

Therapeutic Massage and Acupuncture

Many people with depression report physical symptoms such as pain in areas such as the limbs, back, and head. Alternative treatments such as acupuncture and therapeutic massage are helpful for alleviating muscle pain and relaxing tense muscles. By providing pain relief benefits, these therapies allow you to focus on recovery.

Enhancing Outcomes with a Diverse Team

For successful treatment and a better chance at recovery, it’s crucial that mental health experts adopt an interdisciplinary approach. It involves the collaboration between therapists, case managers, physicians, and nurses.

 

The first person you approached was likely your primary care physician, who evaluated physical symptoms like pain and fatigue. It’s why screening people for depression in primary care settings is crucial. When physicians know what signs to look for, they can refer people to a mental health specialist before symptoms worsen.

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FAQ for Depressive Disorders

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about depressive disorders.

Depressive disorder is characterized by symptoms such as feelings of hopelessness, poor concentration, lack of interest in activities you previously enjoyed, and changes in appetite and sleeping patterns. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you should consider seeing a mental health professional.

Start by speaking to someone you can trust, like a close friend or family member, about your suicidal thoughts. If you don’t have someone like that in your life, call a suicide hotline to speak with a crisis counselor for emotional support and guidance. Next, you should change your environment by going to a calm, public space, a friend’s house, or any safe place where you’re less likely to act on your suicidal thoughts. Make sure ti remove dangerous weapons, substances, and alcohol from your environment and practice grounding techniques.

You can experience physical symptoms of depression, such as gastrointestinal issues, backaches, joint pain, and pain in the limbs. Some symptoms, such as changes in appetite, can lead to overeating or not eating enough, which can cause a higher risk of obesity and nutritional deficiencies, respectively. And because depression is closely linked to stress, you’re prone to higher stress levels as well, which can increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular issues, inflammation, and low immunity.

The most effective way to treat major depressive disorder is to take medication to alleviate symptoms and go to psychotherapy sessions. Seeing a therapist is crucial for long-term recovery because it helps challenge depressive thoughts and teaches you to change them.

You can try a variety of alternative treatments to alleviate the symptoms of major depressive disorder. These include methods such as yoga, meditation, exercise, and a balanced diet. These treatments can help stabilize your mood because of their effect on brain chemistry. Studies show that exercise can stimulate the release of ‘feel-good’ endorphins that improve your mood.

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