Treating Depression

Most people experience feelings of sadness as a natural reaction to struggles during certain times in their lives. However, if intense feelings of helplessness, hopelessness or worthlessness are keeping you or a loved one from functioning normally for longer than a few weeks, consider seeking treatment for depression from the mental health experts at Adventist Health.

Major depression is a serious medical illness affecting 15 million American adults every year. Unlike normal emotional experiences of sadness, loss or passing moods, major depression is persistent and can significantly interfere with an individual's thoughts, behavior, mood, activity and physical health. In fact, major depression is a leading cause of disability in the U.S. and many other developed countries.

Symptoms of depression include:

• Persistently sad or irritable mood
• Pronounced changes in sleep, appetite and energy
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating and remembering
• Physical slowing or agitation
• Lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness and emptiness
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain

When several of these symptoms occur at the same time, last longer than two weeks and interfere with normal function, medical treatment may be needed. The behavioral medicine professionals at Adventist Health are specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of depression and can help get you or your loved one back to living a happy and healthy life.

To learn more or to speak with one of our mental health professionals, call(323) 265-5035, ext. 2.