Depression is a mental health condition that affects millions of people. In every area of life, there is someone who is battling the effects of depression. Sufferers face days of feeling sad, empty, and lonely. Depression can interfere with everyday life. It can affect relationships, jobs, and school. It is important that you get help if you are suffering from depression.

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Please contact our reception team at
(424) 438-2888

Knowing when to get depression can depend on whether you recognize that you are suffering from this disorder. If the following symptoms affect you, it is time for you to get assistance. Don’t wait until you feel so overwhelmed that your feelings lead to self-harm.

The most common symptoms include:

  • Feeling hopeless
  • Loss of sleep
  • Change in eating habits
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Headaches
  • No longer enjoy your hobbies
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Irritability that is not normal

Even though you may not have every symptom listed, it is important to reach out to a therapist if you are experiencing a combination of some of these symptoms.

Because there are many reasons a person may be depressed there are different types of depression. Some may only affect women while other types may be connected to situations that men face. No matter the reason, depression can be debilitating and life-changing.

In order to be diagnosed with depression the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. It is also important to note that certain medications can cause you to experience symptoms that appear to be depression. This is why it is important to seek help if you think you may be suffering from depression.

The reasons for depression vary with each individual. There is no formula that will pinpoint depression. Knowing what symptoms to look for is a big factor in understanding and getting help for depression.

Possible causes of depression include:

  • Abuse
  • Childhood experience
  • Relationship conflict
  • Medications
  • Genetics
  • Age
  • Grief
  • Gender
  • Health conditions
  • Substance abuse
  • Major events

Each of these can cause depression individually or in combination. For example, if you experienced the loss of a family member and you are feeling unwell, you could struggle with depression. Regardless of the cause, acknowledging that there is an issue is a critical point in getting help for depression. The therapists at Mission Viejo Christian Counseling can help you uncover the cause of your depression and help you get on the pathway to enjoying life.

In order to determine which type of depression your therapist will need to understand which specific feature you exhibit with depression.

Anxious distress is depression that is connected to abnormal restlessness, worry about things that may happen, or loss of control.

Catatonia depression is based on whether your motor activity is uncontrollable and aimless or fixed or unfixed.

Psychotic features depression is characterized by negative themed delusions or hallucinations.

Mixed features is a simultaneous depression and mania. It involved high self-esteem, endless chatter, and high energy.

Atypical features is depression which is defined by momentary happiness, an increase in appetite, a need for sleep, unable to handle rejection, and a heavy feeling in the arms or legs.

Melancholic features is severe depression. There is a lack of response to the things that once were enjoyable. The most common symptoms are waking up early, a worse mood during the morning hours, appetite changes, feeling guilty, agitated, or sluggish.

Peripartum onset depression is typical during pregnancy or the weeks after delivery. This can also go into months.

Seasonal pattern depression is related to the seasons and reduced exposure to the sun.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms and the cause, your therapist may choose to use psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of these. There are times when a stay in the hospital may be necessary in order to get the symptoms under control.

Medications: The types of medications available to treat depression can have side effects so be sure to discuss these with your therapist. Connect with Mission Viejo Christian Counseling to learn more about the medications used for treating depression.

Psychotherapy: The basis of psychotherapy is talking about your mental health and related issues. There are different types used depending on what your therapist feels that you need.

Hospital and residential treatment: There are cases where depression is so severe that hospitalization is needed in order to get your symptoms under control. This is evident when there is an issue of self-harm.

There is no reason for you to feel as though you cannot get relief from your symptoms. Help is available in the Mission Viejo, California area at Mission Viejo Christian Counseling. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices if you feel that you suffer from depression.

Get connected with a Christian Counselor
Please contact our reception team at
(424) 438-2888