According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), depression affects one in every 10 Americans.  

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Depression can be triggered by a number of factors including, but not limited to,  genetics and biology, early life and family of origin struggles and conflicts, abuse and/or neglect, death and loss, severe physical illness and pain, substance abuse and alcoholism, and major life events (e.g., divorce, moving, bullying, financial struggles).  In addition to causing depression, substance abuse and alcoholism and anxiety can often be a byproduct of existing depression. A host of other problems, including work absenteeism and relationship struggles. can arise from depression as well.  Severe depression, if left untreated, can become very dangerous for the depressed individual and those in his or her life, at times leading to delusional thinking and great unsafety (e.g., suicide).

 

We have all experienced the occasional emotional blues, but a depressive disorder is diagnosed when the symptoms altogether negatively impact one’s life in very significant ways socially, emotionally and behaviorally.  The main depressive disorders are:

 

Major Depressive Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Dysthymic Disorder

Postpartum Depression

Situational Depression

Bipolar Disorder

 

Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IT) are effective therapies in treating depression.  Depending on one’s circumstances and needs, family therapy or couple’s therapy may also prove to be helpful in reducing depressive symptoms and bringing about improved personal well-being and increased connected with others.  Psychiatric medication can also be very successful in the treatment of depression, especially for severe range depression.  It's been shown that a combination of medication and therapy together brings about the most meaningful and lasting changes for depression, but treatment at WBHS is planned on an individual basis, ensuring patients get exactly what they need, how they need it, and when they need it.