Depression affects at least nine percent of Americans. Sometimes, people turn to substance abuse to combat depression or exhibit depression symptoms because of their substance abuse. While some types of depression can be treated with medication and counseling, other types require more intensive treatment like that offered by Healthsmart Depression Treatment Centers.
Depression Types
The first step in seeking treatment for depression is to visit a medical professional who will assist in diagnosing the type of depression. Several different depression disorders affect people and include:
1. Major depression interferes with daily life and occurs once or recurs often.
2. Persistent depressive disorder includes major and mild symptoms that last for two years or longer.
3. Psychotic depression involves severe depression symptoms plus psychosis, such as hallucinations or delusions.
4. Postpartum depression affects 10 to 15 percent of women.
5. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) occurs during the winter months.
Depression Symptoms
While knowing the type of depression is beneficial, symptoms are also important to track. They give the medical team insight into which treatment options are best. Depression disorder symptoms generally include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, pessimism or worthlessness
- Irritability, anxiety and restlessness
- Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions or remembering details
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Thoughts of suicide
Depression Treatment
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment options can vary. Mild cases may be treated with an antidepressant, regular therapy or life skills classes that teach patients how to cope with stress. However, severe cases may need more substantial treatment like inpatient hospitalization. In all cases, patients may benefit from the services provided by Healthsmart Depression Treatment Centers.
When choosing Healthsmart Depression Treatment Centers, select in-network medical providers to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Healthsmart depression treatment may cover weekly visits with a psychologist and regular med management or intensive inpatient therapy that includes medication management, behavioral therapy, individual, group and family counseling, life skills classes, nutrition counseling and exercise therapy.
Treating depression requires personalized medical care, and early treatment often produces a quicker recovery. For details on what your Healthsmart insurance policy will cover, contact our representatives today or consult your policy and plan administrator. With professional help, ongoing treatment and beneficial services provided at Healthsmart Depression Treatment Centers, depression can be managed now and into the future.