Treatment for Depression
Ask Dr. Seth
At Milestones Ranch Malibu, we understand how difficult it can for be for those individuals who suffering from depression as well as those that love them. Our expert medical staff works closely with our experienced and caring clinicians to provide the best treatment for depression possible. Additionally, we will address any addiction or other mental health issue that is present as well. For more information on treatment for depression please read on:
What is depression?
We all feel sad or blue on occasion, but these feelings tend to disappear relatively quickly. When these feelings linger, it is often a sign of depression, a disorder which involves sadness, despair and/or hopelessness, and impairs the client’s daily functioning.
What causes depression?
Depression is usually attributable to genetics (it tends to run in families), as well as stressful life events, such as the death of a family member, divorce, separation, job loss, financial difficulties, or other traumatic events.
Substance abuse can cause chemical changes in the brain that affect mood, and medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, can also lead to depression.
Early life experiences, such as the death of a parent, issues with biological development, school related problems, abandonment or rejection, neglect, chronic illness, and physical, psychological, or sexual abuse can increase the likelihood of depression later in life.
What are some common symptoms of depression?
- Sad, anxious or empty mood
- Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism or indifference
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Irritability, anger, anxiety
- Isolation, withdrawal from family and friends
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that were once pleasurable
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Change in sleep patterns (inability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get up in the morning)
- Overeating or loss of appetite
- Thoughts of death, suicide, or suicide attempts
- Aches and pains without a known medical cause
Who is susceptible to depression?
Clinical depression affects about 7–18% of the population on at least one occasion in their lives, before the age of 40. Approximately 14 million American adults are annually diagnosed with depression.
- About twice as many females as males report or receive treatment for clinical depression, though this imbalance is shrinking over the course of recent history. This difference seems to completely disappear after the age of 50–55.
Clinical depression is currently the leading cause of disability in North America as well as other countries, and is expected to become the second leading cause of disability worldwide (after heart disease) by the year 2020, according to the World Health Organization.
Treatment for depression:
Psychotherapy, combined with medication, is the generally acknowledged standard of care.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, the primary modality at Milestones Ranch Malibu, has been shown to be very effective in diminishing the client’s depression. Depressed persons who are able to make corrections in their thinking patterns can show improved mood and self-esteem. At Milestones, we help the client change negative thoughts and actions into more positive and affirming thoughts and actions.
The most frequently prescribed group of antidepressants are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, otherwise known as SSRIs, and including Prozac, Paxil, Celexa, and Zoloft. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), similar to SSRIs, include Effexor and Cymbalta. Wellbutrin, an atypical antidepressant that acts as a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, is also considered to be effective in the treatment of depression.
Studies have indicated that regular exercise, when used in conjunction with medication and psychotherapy, can have beneficial effects in the diminution of depression, along with proper nutrition.
Dr. Seth C. Kadish, Psy.D. is the Clinical Director of Milestones Ranch Malibu, and has extensive experience working with depression. |
