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Therapy for depression
Depression isn’t just feeling down for a day or two—it’s a mood disorder that makes people feel stuck in sadness, emptiness, or even like they can’t enjoy life anymore. While big life events—like losing someone or a job—might spark these feelings, depression often lingers long after things should feel “better.” It’s that sense of being overwhelmed or out of sync with what’s happening in your life.
For some, depression lasts weeks, months, or even years, and it can feel like a chronic condition that comes and goes. Major depressive disorder is the most common form, where someone feels low for at least two weeks at a time.
Depression can show up in all sorts of ways—both mentally and physically. You might notice:
Feeling down or "off" for a while
Losing interest in things you used to love
Big changes in your appetite or weight
Feeling sluggish or overly restless
Constantly tired, no matter how much sleep you get
Struggling with sleep—too much or too little
Guilt or feeling worthless
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide, or even attempts
If several of these symptoms are popping up, it might be time to talk to a doctor or therapist. Depression can also bring on irritability, restlessness, or even physical issues like headaches or stomach problems.
Signs You Might Be Dealing With Depression
Major Depression: This involves persistent sadness and loss of interest in life. Treatment often includes both medication and therapy.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A milder but long-lasting form that sticks around for at least two years, often with major depressive episodes sprinkled in.
Postpartum Depression: After childbirth, some parents experience intense feelings that go beyond the usual “baby blues.” This requires support and care.
Seasonal Depression: Now called “major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern,” this tends to hit during certain times of the year, especially winter. Light therapy can often help.
Let’s also break down three lesser-known types of depression in a more relatable way:
Situational Depression
Sometimes life throws a curveball—a breakup, job stress, or loss—that leaves you feeling down. This is known as reactive or situational depression. It’s a response to a specific event. If the sadness sticks around longer than expected, though, it could be more than just grief—it might be depression. You might notice feeling irritable, anxious, or sad, with changes in appetite or sleep.
“Pretending Everything’s Fine” Depression
Ever feel like you’re smiling on the outside but struggling inside? That’s smiling depression. You’re still going to work, socializing, and keeping up appearances, but internally, you’re weighed down by sadness, guilt, or anxiety. It’s common, especially with today’s pressure to "keep it all together."
Morning Depression
If you wake up feeling especially sad or unmotivated, you might be dealing with morning depression. This form of depression tends to hit hardest at the start of the day but eases up as the day goes on. It could be tied to your body’s internal clock being a bit off balance.
Different Types of Depression
Family history of depression
Past trauma or lack of support
Chronic medical conditions or ongoing pain
Certain medications or recreational drugs
Sometimes, these factors mix together, making depression more likely to surface.
Depression can be triggered or made worse by:
Stressful life events, like a breakup or job loss
Medical conditions or getting a new diagnosis
Stopping treatment too soon
Some people are more likely to struggle with depression if they have certain risk factors, like financial stress, job worries, family history, or chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease).
Causes and Risk Factors
Women: Depression tends to be more common in women, and things like hormonal changes and societal pressures can contribute. Conditions like postpartum depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder are also unique to women.
Men: Men might show depression differently, like withdrawing from relationships, getting irritable, or turning to alcohol. There’s often pressure for men to keep quiet about their feelings, which can make it harder to get help.
College Students: Adjusting to a new environment can bring on depression or anxiety. Signs include trouble focusing, sleep issues, or pulling away from social life.
Teens: School stress, peer pressure, and body changes can lead to depression in teens. They might show it through irritability, trouble concentrating, or avoiding social activities.
Children: Even young kids can experience depression, though it often looks like clinginess, crying, low energy, or behavioral problems.
How Depression Affects Different Groups
Depression is serious, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Therapy, whether individual or couples therapy, can be an essential part of getting back to feeling like yourself. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or helpless, reaching out to a therapist, like one in Hermosa Beach, can make all the difference. Remember, you don’t have to go through it alone—help is always available.
