Our therapists provide depression counseling in Wilmington, NC

Counseling for Depression in Wilmington, NC—Work with a Therapist or Psychologist

How and when depression develops is a very personal experience. Challenging life events can trigger it. Genetics and family history can make it more likely to occur. The illness has common characteristics, but each person experiences it in a unique way. It can be difficult for friends and family members to recognize when their loved one is depressed, but understanding is not only possible—it is necessary. Both those who have depression and those who love them can understand how depression functions and the treatment options that are available.

Thriveworks Counseling in Wilmington, NC treats depression because we know that healing and hope are possible. Depression is a serious illness, but like many other serious illnesses, it often responds to treatment from a mental health professional. So, if you are looking for a therapist, psychologist, or another form of mental health care in the Wilmington, NC area, look no further. We are here to help. Reach out today for help.

What Is Depression?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) outlines those differences and how to recognize Major Depressive Disorder. Healthy sadness comes and goes. It can be processed and resolved. Depression is very different. Here are the signs for it. Does anything on this list sound familiar to you?

• For a continuous period of two weeks, you experience at least one of the following…
  • Lost interest in everyday activities.
  • A depressed mood for most of the day and on more days than not (this mood will be severe enough that others notice).
• In addition, you will also experience one of the following…
  • Fluctuations in appetite (either an increase or decrease) with accompanying weight gain or loss.
  • Insomnia (difficulty falling sleep or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (sleeping all the time).
  • Deteriorated psychomotor skills (speed, strength, coordination, dexterity, et cetera) that is observable to others.
  • On more days than not, feeling lethargic.
  • On more days than not, feeling guilty and worthless.
  • Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions.
  • Thoughts of death and/or suicide.
  • Attempted suicide.
• The symptoms will make it difficult if not impossible for an individual to function in their daily life and fulfill their daily responsibilities.
• To be diagnosed as Major Depressive Disorder, the symptoms cannot be attributable to another medical condition or the physiological effects of a substance.
• The symptoms also cannot be better explained by another psychotic disorder or schizophrenia spectrum disorder.
• If these symptoms are accompanied by a manic or hypomanic episode, they may signal Bipolar Disorder instead of Major Depressive Disorder.

Treatment Options for Depression

Because depression can uniquely manifest in each person, treatment often needs to be tailored to each individual. A treatment plan for one person may not be right for another. Right treatment often begins with a proper diagnosis. Holistic treatment often involves a multi-faceted approach that may utilize…

• Medication: SSRIs and SNRIs are forms of antidepressants that have a proven history of helping ease the symptoms of depression. Each individual body responds to medication differently, and only a qualified medical and mental health professional can determine if and which medicine is right for you.
• Psychotherapy: Different forms of psychotherapy may help identify the root cause of the depression. Psychotherapy can also build an individual’s coping skills that empower them with healthy emotional habits. As with medication, there are different types of psychotherapy that may be more effective for certain individuals. Working with a qualified mental health professional is important.

Scheduling Counseling for Depression at Thriveworks Counseling in Wilmington, NC

If you recognized any of the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder, consider reaching out for help. We have counselors, therapists, and psychologists on our team and want you to know that we have appointments available for depression therapy. We are ready to meet with you when you are. When you call our office, your first appointment may be the same week. Weekend and evening sessions are offered, and we accept many different insurance plans. Call today.