Depression

Treatment for Depression at Pasadena Villa Outpatient Center – Raleigh

What is depression?

Depression is a severe mental illness with symptoms of intense sadness that can include feelings of helplessness, worthlessness, and hopelessness lasting for days to weeks at a time limiting normal functioning.  The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that 7% of U.S. adults suffered from least one depressive episode in the past year, affecting people of all ages, races, ethnicity, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The likely causes of depression include biological, environmental and psychological. Genetics can also be a cause of depression, but it can occur in individuals without a family history of depression. Traumatic events such as the loss of a loved one, difficult relationships or other stressful situations can also lead to depression. Medical testing does not effectively diagnose depression. For an accurate diagnosis, a medical professional must assess the symptoms and talk with the patient. Symptoms of clinical depression can manifest in many ways making it difficult to diagnose.

What are the symptoms of depression?

For many individuals, changes in daily functioning that last for more than two weeks is typical of a depressive disorder. Symptoms of depression can vary for each person, but for most other common symptoms include:

• Changes in sleep
• Changes in appetite
• Lack of concentration
• Loss of energy
• Lack of interest in activities
• Hopelessness or guilty thoughts
• Changes in movement (less activity or agitation)
• Physical aches and pains
• Suicidal thoughts

How is depression treated at Pasadena Villa Outpatient Center – Raleigh?

Many of the individuals at Pasadena Villa Outpatient Center are struggling with clinical depression as well as anxiety and other co-occurring conditions. Each person is unique, and their personalized treatment plan and goals are specific to their needs. After a comprehensive assessment including a psychiatric and a biopsychosocial evaluation, the clinical team consults with the client to collaborate on treatment approaches.

A combination of medication and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is empirically-validated psychotherapy is a successful approach to treating depression. Our CBT groups, “NuLeaf” and “Get Happy,” focus on the connection between thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. Clients develop insight into their problematic thinking and develop strategies to change and improve their mood. Other groups such as “I Heart Me” and “Emotions 101” come from different approaches but with the same goal of reducing depression and increasing quality of life.
With depression often leading to social isolation and resistance to accepting support from others, group therapy offers a place to be heard and supported. The sharing of stories and success can also increase a sense of hope which is often lacking in those who have experienced depression for years. The treatment team works together with the client to develop an aftercare plan that connects them to providers and other supports in the community. After completing programming, clients leave empowered with new tools, individualized strategies, and a sense of empowerment over their depression.