What is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling sad or experiencing a rough patch from time to time. Depression is a serious mental health condition that requires compassion, understanding, and proper, dedicated treatment. Some people may only experience one depressive episode in a lifetime. For others, depression can be a chronic, recurring health condition. If left untreated, depression can be severe and devastating. Fortunately, most people can and do get better. Early intervention is helpful, and an appropriate custom treatment plan – consisting of psychotherapy, mindfulness training, and improved lifestyle choices – is crucial when battling depression.
Symptoms
Symptoms of depression can vary from person to person. For most people, however, depression takes away their ability to function day-to-day, typically for more than two weeks.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Loss of energy
- Lack of concentration
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in appetite
- Lack of interest in activities
- Hopelessness or guilty thoughts
- Changes in movement (less activity or agitation)
- Physical aches and pains
- Suicidal thoughts
Sanctuary Centers Treats Depression
At Sanctuary Centers, we understand that depression can be especially difficult to navigate. As such, our treatments for depression are extensive. Our treatments include mindfulness-based programs such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). We can also couple these therapies with mindfulness meditation practices and pharmacotherapy, if needed. Additionally, we focus on specific lifestyle improvements to promote healthy self-care. Our clients are encouraged to improve their sleep habits, raise their level of physical activity, take an interest in their nutrition, and cultivate healthy work and family relationships. We have decades of experience treating all kinds of depression ranging from mild to severe, and we understand that depression frequently occurs along with anxiety and other psychological issues. We are also ready and willing to help