Depressive disorders encompass a wide number of variations of major depression. Those living with symptoms of depression experience wrong thinking about themselves, their situation, and the world around them. Dangerously, this can result in low self-esteem, feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts, among other symptoms. Living with depressive disorders can be managed and improved through mental health treatment at a recovery center.
Aliya Health Group is a nationwide depression treatment provider dedicated to quality care for all. Our programs help people pull themselves free from the confines of a depressive disorder and onto a brighter future.
Depression is a multifaceted mental illness that impacts mood and emotions. Those with depression symptoms experience sadness, a persistent low frame of mind, and feelings of meaninglessness in their daily lives. If you’re struggling with depression, it can begin to feel like part of your personality, making it hard to separate valid emotions from depression symptoms. Depression is an altered perception of reality, leading you to believe that things are more negative than they are. Notably, this includes your perception of the future.
Depression seems like an endless dark tunnel, but with the right treatment, recovery is possible. There are many different therapies and medications used to treat depression, and a recovery center can help you find the right ones for you. Every client receives a unique depression treatment plan crafted by the therapists at Aliya Health Group. Individualized treatment is proven effective at treating mental health disorders and is a primary focus for depression therapists. It may seem impossible to overcome depression, but there are options for effective recovery when you work with professional clinicians.
No one should have to wait to heal, which is why our specialists are available 24/7 to help guide you through the admissions process every step of the way.
Due to ample research, we know many factors contribute to the development of depressive disorders. These include genetics, biology, experiences, physical health, and substance abuse. Of course, depression is a complex disease that cannot be pinned to one specific cause. In many cases, a combination of factors contributed to depression’s development. Also, depression itself can manifest differently in everyone. That includes symptoms and, of course, treatment options for healing.
Here are some risk factors for the development of depressive disorders:
A family history of depression increases your risk of being diagnosed with a mood disorder. Prominently, this is the case for both depression and bipolar disorder. Depression is highly inheritable throughout generations. Having a close family member with depression increases your likelihood by 2-3 times. The strongest risk of depression exists for those with two generations of family members with depression.
Depression is an intricate system, but it’s understood that a chemical imbalance in the brain is part of the cause. For this reason, prescription medications for depression target brain receptors to promote a surplus of positive hormones and block others. Those with depression have unique changes in their brain function, resulting in their symptoms.
Gender often plays a role in the prevalence of depression. For example, women are more likely to experience depression and other mood disorders than men. This applies to mild, moderate, and severe symptoms, all of which are more present in women.
Research shows that trauma during childhood commonly leads to depressive disorders. The more traumatic situations you’ve had, the more severe your depression symptoms can be throughout adulthood. Trauma during childhood, as well as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), increases your risk of developing depression. Toxic stress, which ACEs cause, can damage brain development. Since brain function also influences depression, a combination of both further increases depression risk.
Chronic medical conditions and depression are connected, but the order varies per person. For example, depression can stem from the effects of medication but also from the life-altering impact of living with chronic pain. Lasting illness can cause feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and low mood, which are also symptoms of depression. Further, depression can be pushed to the side as less serious than chronic illness so that it goes untreated.
Mental disorders and substance abuse often go hand-in-hand. Whether those with mental health issues are self-medicating with substances or substance abuse alters their brain chemistry, the conditions frequently co-exist. 50% of those with SUD also have a mental disorder. Substance use disorder (SUD) is treatable, as is depression. Accordingly, a holistic approach to treating co-occurring disorders is most effective. Outpatient mental health programs address both concerns and how they exacerbate each other.
Life experiences play a role in the development of depressive disorders. Those who undergo negative, stressful, and traumatic situations are at a heightened risk of developing depression, along with symptoms of other disorders. For instance, there is a defined link between the loss of a child during pregnancy and the development of depression. Yet, many people who experience stress don’t develop a mood disorder. It is a combination of life stressors, genetics, and biology that lead to depression.
If you or a loved one is struggling with their mental health, our admissions team is available 24/7. Our compassionate and understanding team can help answer your mental health treatment questions and get you started on the path to recovery.
Deciding to seek depression treatment can be intimidating. We are here to make this process as easy as possible. Reach out to us today to learn more about how our treatment centers can help!
Although many people think of depression as one disorder, it can take many forms. Diagnosing mental illness isn’t always straightforward, as each person has a different experience of their illness. There are numerous types of depressive disorders based on their symptoms, time frame, and effects on daily life.
Depressive disorders include:
Fortunately, there are mental health services for depression, regardless of your unique experience with the disease. Treating depressive disorders can be straightforward and greatly beneficial for mental health.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is what is most commonly referred to as depression. Although there are many depressive disorders, most people refer to major depression, or clinical depression, when they refer to the illness. Another name for this mental disorder is unipolar depression. It’s categorized by episodes, which the DSM-5 defines as five or more symptoms during two weeks.
Clinical depression includes symptoms like:
Depression is difficult to live with and significantly impacts your quality of life. Treatment goals are to lessen symptoms, provide coping mechanisms when triggers arise, and help individuals function in their daily lives. A balance of medication and talk therapy is an effective treatment track that can be modified on a person-to-person basis.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) is categorized as chronic, persistent depression symptoms that affect an individual most days of the year. Symptoms persist for a long-lasting period. Although it’s considered less severe than major depression, it can vary between mild to intense symptoms depending on the individual. Therefore, it should be treated seriously. Persistent depressive disorder is also labeled dysthymia or dysthymic disorder. This is a form of chronic depression that includes a lasting low mood or hopelessness more often than positive feelings.
The difference between PDD and major depression is based on the length of time symptoms last rather than their severity. For example, PDD persists for two years or more, while major depression spans various episodes that may have weeks or months in between. Chronic major depressive disorder refers to depression that lasts longer than a few months but is separated from PDD. It can be treated with a mixture of psychotherapy and medication.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a serious form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that impacts 3-5 percent of women. Once called late luteal dysphoric disorder, this hormone-based depression is like a severe extension of regular PMS symptoms. Symptoms align with the menstrual cycle, getting worse before menstruation and improving during the weeks afterward.
PMDD has many of the symptoms of major depression. These include anxiety and depression, feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, changes in appetite, and lack of interest in hobbies. Treatment options include hormonal adjustments through medication, changes in diet, and mood stabilizers. Above all, the aim is to improve symptoms and quality of life.
Psychotic depression is a heightened variation of depression that can also be classified as depression with psychosis or depressive psychosis. This severe mental illness includes symptoms of delusions and hallucinations. Specifically, individuals with this disorder are characterized as having major depression with psychotic features. This is because psychotic features are independent of major depression in many cases.
Clients experience impaired quality of life due to symptoms like feelings of despair, fear and anxiety, agitation, and delusions about reality. Such false beliefs can lead individuals to hide from the world or, in other cases, to make irresponsible choices.
Atypical depression is a form of depression that has symptoms that contrast those of major depressive disorder. Markedly, those with atypical depression feel their mood improves when their situation does. Typical depression symptoms remain unchanged by outside factors. Further, major depression with atypical features commonly leads to increased appetite and sensitivity to perceived rejection. Those with this subtype of depression have the same treatment goals but may need different medications.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that aligns with the seasons. It is also called major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern. Typically, SAD begins in the fall when the days become shorter, darker, and colder and improves in spring and summer. Those living in colder climates may be at heightened risk for developing winter depression. Summer depression is less common but still prevalent. Along with typical symptoms, seasonal depression can include isolation, feelings of restlessness, and aches and pains. Psychotherapy, medication, and light therapy are treatment options for SAD.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a depressive disorder that follows pregnancy and lasts longer than two weeks. PPD follows the typical symptoms of depression, such as feelings of sadness or guilt, low or irritable mood, and loss of interest in hobbies. Physical symptoms are also connected to PPD, like fatigue or jumpiness. Further, intrusive thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby can be symptoms. This disorder is separated from short-term “baby blues” because it lasts over 14 days and tends to be more severe. As guilt is common in peripartum depression, talk therapy is a beneficial part of treatment.
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder with symptoms of intense mood changes and altered patterns of thinking, acting, and concentrating.
Other symptoms include:
Bipolar disorder can be diagnosed as bipolar I, bipolar II, or cyclothymia. Those with bipolar disorder swing between manic episodes and depressive episodes, which are like highs and lows. Also called manic-depressive disorder, this illness can severely impact the quality of life. Medication management can help a person level out to a consistent behavior. Unfortunately, substance abuse is common among people with bipolar disorder, which exacerbates mixed episodes.
You’re not alone in battling symptoms of depression. The World Health Organization estimates that 5% of adults have depression worldwide, equaling around 280 million individuals. Yet, many people don’t get treated for their symptoms. Mental health issues like depression put people at risk of deteriorating health, self-harm, and death.
Treating depression and improving your ability to manage symptoms is possible through licensed mental health professionals. Depressive disorders require comprehensive care that looks at the individual as a person, not a disease. Healing is possible through a mental health provider like Aliya Health Group and our treatment facilities. Outpatient treatment for depression allows you to receive help for the pain you feel while still maintaining normalcy in your daily life. We can help you manage your condition and find hope again through therapies.
Healing from depression may feel impossible, but it’s within reach. There are many therapies and services recommended for depressive disorders.
During depression treatment, clients benefit from a number of therapies and services such as:
Professional treatment places a caring team around you, including a case manager, therapists, physicians, counselors, and peer support throughout your recovery from depression.
At Aliya Health Group, we offer evidence-based therapy to encourage internal and external healing. Different types of psychotherapy reach people in varying ways, so engaging in therapy options can promote greater healing.
Some of the therapies we provide include:
Behavioral therapy is a method of psychotherapy that helps individuals reframe their thinking and behaviors. As such, they’re released from their cycle of illness. It’s effective at treating a wide number of mood disorders, behavioral disorders, and addictions. In sum, behavioral therapy teaches new behavior patterns by unpacking the old ones. There are multiple therapy programs under the umbrella of behavioral therapy.
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) encourages individuals to accept and love themselves, their situations, and their struggles. By reframing their thoughts about themselves and their lives, ACT takes clients into a place of self-assurance and confidence. Key components are mindfulness, emotion exposure, and goal setting.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) combines cognition and behavior to help individuals change the way they walk through life. By focusing on both thoughts and actions, it allows individuals to take power over how they engage with the world. Emphasis is placed on strategizing, goal setting, and self-awareness. Sometimes, CBT is trauma-focused.
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) emphasizes emotional regulation. Originally created with borderline personality disorder in mind, DBT has benefits for many disorders and behavioral issues. Although similar to CBT, the focus is on one’s social and emotional experiences and coping with challenges in these areas.
Depression symptoms can be managed through a comprehensive mixture of medication, counseling, and therapy. To elaborate, psychiatric medications for depression help relieve symptoms of depression to promote a better quality of life. Medication management includes:
An individual’s medication management plan will be created according to their unique depressive disorder, as well as their goals. Receiving medication for depression as part of holistic treatment at a recovery center is the best way to begin healing.
Antidepressant medications are recommended to be added to a comprehensive treatment approach that also includes therapy and counseling. Psychotherapy with medication ensures your whole self is looked after, including your mind, body, and spirit. When combined, they can be effective at reducing depression symptoms. Medications are divided into different types of antidepressants, which are prescribed according to your own symptoms and depressive disorder. Also, individuals may interact differently with each type, so a certified mental health professional will prescribe the best fit.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are a type of antidepressant that is generally a first-response prescription. This is because they are known to have few side effects and are often successful in those with depressive disorders. SSRIs increase the amount of serotonin for more positive brain messaging, which can improve overall mood and sleep quality. Brand names of SSRIs include Zoloft, Lexapro, and Prozac.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can improve depression symptoms by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine. Thus, a person with depression experiences higher levels of each hormone for an improved mood. Typically, mental health professionals will prescribe SNRIs as a second resort if SSRIs aren’t effective for the individual. Venlafaxine, duloxetine, and desvenlafaxine are SNRIs.
Atypical antidepressants work differently from other types of medication to treat those who need a different approach. Yet, atypical antidepressants still adjust one’s brain chemistry to improve mood and emotions. You might be prescribed an atypical antidepressant medication if others don’t work for you. Some brands include Wellbutrin, Oleptro, and Remeron.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are a type of antidepressant medication. They’re used for treating symptoms of depressive disorders, as well as chronic pain, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and other issues. Notably, TCAs are one of the earliest antidepressant types. They are FDA-approved and often prescribed for those with symptoms that remain after trying other medications. Because they are strong, psychiatrists start clients on a low dose and work up. Doxepin, Norpramin, and Tofranil are TCAs.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a highly powerful form of antidepressants that block the monoamine oxidase enzyme. As a result, individuals have a boost of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. As the first type of antidepressant, they’re now not commonly prescribed to treat depression. They require the individual to follow a strict diet to avoid adverse food and drug interactions. Some MAOIs are tranylcypromine, phenelzine, isocarboxazid, and selegiline.
Anti-anxiety medications serve to improve anxiety symptoms, including those due to depressive disorders. Anti-anxiety meds can include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and beta blockers. In general, anti-anxiety medication management helps reduce anxiety by being mildly sedative. Common benzodiazepines for anxiety and depression are Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin.
Antipsychotic medications are used to treat psychotic depression, as well as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders. Once called narcoleptics or tranquilizers, this medication type blocks dopamine receptors. As a result, it helps reduce an overactivity of the brain chemical responsible for manic symptoms. Some antipsychotics are Risperdal, Zyprexa, Seroquel, and Abilify.
Mood stabilizers are a type of medication that can be prescribed alone or in combination with antidepressants. Mood stabilizers are not used strictly for depression, as they can also improve symptoms of bipolar disorder. Overall, this medication group helps prevent extreme shifts in mood. This can be a symptom of various depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, and personality disorders. Notably, mood stabilizers and antipsychotics are different types of medication but can be used in conjunction. Lithium, valproic acid, lamotrigine, and carbamazepine are mood stabilizers.
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Healing must target the whole person, from the mind to the spirit to the body. Aliya Health Group takes a holistic treatment approach that helps each client heal their total self for lasting recovery. By combining traditional psychotherapy with counseling, experiential therapies, and optional medication management, each person who comes to our centers for help receives tailored care. Our licensed medical staff operates around the clock to provide support. Similarly, individuals meet with therapists and counselors multiple times a week in both one-on-one and group settings.
Above all, we provide comprehensive recovery options because we know every person is different. By targeting the whole body with different treatment methods, we can help every person who enters our programs.
Regardless of the severity of your symptoms, how long you have experienced them, or what categorization of depressive disorder you experience, you can find help! Often, it can be difficult to talk about how poorly you’re feeling. The first step is admitting it’s time to make a change.
Finding depression treatment nearby starts with calling the admissions team at Aliya Health Group. We operate depression and mental health treatment centers across the country, all dedicated to the same goal of helping people get better. Through our skilled clinicians and effective treatment programs, anyone can leave depression behind and move on to a happy and healthy life.
Aliya Health Group accepts most major health insurance providers on both a national and local level. Some of the health insurance providers we work include:
Before entering outpatient treatment for substance abuse, most people have a long list of questions and concerns. To help you gain a better understanding of what to expect during outpatient programs, we have compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions.
Yes, our rehabilitation facilities have designated smoking areas available. However, kindly note that all cigarettes brought into the facility must be in unopened packs or cartons. The same rule applies to any cigarettes sent or brought by family or friends. Our staff will be more than happy to provide you with additional details regarding these guidelines during the admission process.
Yes, in most cases, we can offer repayment options tailored to your unique circumstances. For more details regarding personal repayment options, we recommend reaching out to our admissions team. They’ll be more than happy to assist you.
We accept all major insurance plans at our treatment locations. To learn more about insurance and treatment cost, contact our admissions team or fill out our secure insurance verification form.
Yes, we provide integrative dual diagnostics alongside a wide array of treatment modalities. Our core objective revolves around tackling addiction, while simultaneously addressing the underlying factors that contribute to substance use disorders. Our mission is to deliver effective and holistic care that encompasses both symptom management and the exploration of root causes of addiction.
In terms of cost, outpatient treatment is typically more affordable than inpatient options which require round-the-clock medical supervision. This makes it a viable solution for individuals who may be deterred from seeking help due to financial constraints.
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Aliya Health Group is a comprehensive network of addiction and mental health treatment centers, with locations spanning nationwide.
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