Symptoms of Depression

Depression manifests in a variety of ways, and not everyone experiences the same symptoms. Someone with clinical depression may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness: One of the most prominent symptoms is a persistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness that doesn’t seem to go away. This can also include a sense of emptiness or feeling numb.
• Loss of Interest or Pleasure: People with depression often lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, including hobbies, social interactions and sexual activity.
• Fatigue and Low Energy: Chronic fatigue and a lack of energy are common in individuals with depression, making even simple tasks feel exhausting.
• Changes in Appetite and Weight: Depression can lead to significant changes in appetite, resulting in weight loss or gain. Some people may overeat as a form of self-comfort, while others may lose their appetite entirely.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or oversleeping are both common in depression. Some people may find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, while others may sleep excessively yet still feel tired.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Depression can make it hard to concentrate, make decisions or remember things. This can interfere with work, school and daily responsibilities.
• Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Many individuals with depression experience feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt or self-blame, often without a clear reason.
• Physical Symptoms: Depression can cause physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues and chronic pain that doesn’t respond to treatment.
• Thoughts of Death or Suicide: In severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of death, self-harm or suicide. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention.

Diagnosing Depression

Diagnosing depression involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. First, a mental health professional will conduct a detailed clinical interview to assess symptoms, medical history and any family history of mental health issues. This interview often includes discussions about recent life events, stressors or noticeable changes in behavior.

Because depression can manifest with physical symptoms, a doctor may perform a physical examination to rule out underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or vitamin deficiencies that could be contributing to the symptoms.

To formally diagnose depression, the patient must meet the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This includes experiencing at least five symptoms, with at least one being either persistent sadness or a loss of interest in activities.

In some cases, healthcare providers may also use standardized questionnaires or psychological assessments to further evaluate the severity of depression and its impact on the individual's daily life.

Treatment Options for Depression

Pharmaceutical Treatments

• Antidepressants: The most common type of medication used to treat depression is antidepressants. These medications work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and emotions. There are several classes of antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). A healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate medication based on the individual's symptoms and response to treatment.
• Mood Stabilizers and Antipsychotics: In some cases, especially when depression is part of a bipolar disorder or is accompanied by psychotic symptoms, mood stabilizers or antipsychotic medications may be prescribed in addition to antidepressants.
• Side Effects and Monitoring: All medications have potential side effects, and it’s important for patients to work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their response to the medication. It’s important that patients follow dosing recommendations and only adjust their dosage only after consulting with their doctors, as sudden cessation can have serious side effects.

Therapeutic Approaches

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most effective forms of psychotherapy for treating depression. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their depression. Through CBT, patients learn coping strategies to manage stress and reduce symptoms.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): IPT focuses on improving relationships and communication skills that may be contributing to a person’s depression. This therapy is particularly effective for individuals whose depression is triggered by interpersonal conflicts or life changes, such as divorce or loss.
• Psychodynamic Therapy: This therapy explores how unconscious thoughts and past experiences influence current behavior and emotions. By understanding these underlying issues, individuals can gain insight into their depression and develop healthier ways to cope.
• Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation and stress reduction exercises can help individuals manage the emotional and physical symptoms of depression. These approaches encourage individuals to stay present in the moment and reduce the impact of negative thoughts.
• Lifestyle Changes: In addition to formal treatments, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing depression. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep and social support are all important components of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Struggling With Depression? We’re Here for You!

If you or someone you love is struggling with depression in Houston, TX, St. Hope Healthcare is here to help.

Our dedicated team of behavioral health professionals offers compassionate care and personalized treatment plans to meet your unique needs. Don’t let depression control your life—reach out to St. Hope Healthcare today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward recovery.