Depression affects children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, causing sadness, loss of interest in once-favorite activities, and no desire to interact with friends and family. When you or your child are depressed, the team at Summit Health and Wellness Center can help with customized and compassionate therapy. He sees patients from throughout Oklahoma, so seek treatment to recover from depression today. Call the office in Norman, Oklahoma, or schedule an appointment online.

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What is depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It can affect how a person thinks, feels, and handles daily activities, leading to physical symptoms like changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Depression can be triggered by various factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, trauma, and life circumstances, and it often requires treatment through therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes.

When should I get help for depression?

  1. Persistent Symptoms: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness last for two weeks or more.
  2. Impact on Daily Life: Your mood is affecting your work, relationships, or daily activities.
  3. Physical Symptoms: You experience significant changes in appetite, sleep, or energy levels.
  4. Loss of Interest: You’ve lost interest in activities you once enjoyed.
  5. Suicidal Thoughts: You have thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
  6. Inability to Cope: You feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with daily stressors.

If you notice any of these signs, reaching out to a mental health professional can be a crucial step toward recovery.

Is depression different in children compared to adults?

While the core symptoms of depression are similar, the expression and impact can vary significantly between children and adults. Early intervention is crucial for effective treatment in both age groups.

In Children:

  • Symptoms may include irritability, mood swings, and changes in behavior.
  • Children might express sadness through anger or acting out.
  • They may show changes in academic performance or social interactions.
  • Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches can be more common.

In Adults:

  • Adults typically experience more pronounced feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety.
  • They may withdraw from social activities and struggle with work or daily responsibilities.

What causes depression?

Depression can arise from a combination of factors, including:

1. Biological Factors such as genetics and brain chemistry.

2. Psychological Factors such as trauma and negative thinking patterns.

3. Environmental Factors such as stressful life events and lack of support.

4. Medical Conditions such as chronic illness and hormonal changes.

5. Substance Use such as alcohol or drug abuse.

Each individual’s experience with depression is unique, often resulting from a complex interplay of these factors.

How do you treat depression?

Treating depression typically involves a combination of approaches. At Summit Health and Wellness Center, we adopt a comprehensive, multimodal approach to treating depression, integrating both therapy and medication management as needed. Our experienced team collaborates closely with each patient to determine the most effective treatment plan tailored to their unique personality, lifestyle, and goals.

Consulting a mental health professional can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for an individual’s specific needs.