Treating Depressive Disorders in Port Matilda, PA

Depression is a pervasive mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. In the U.S. depression is the leading cause of disability in people ages 15-44. If you or a loved one is experiencing depression symptoms, you don’t have to manage them alone. St. Joseph Institute, just outside of State College, PA, is eager to help our clients with depression discover their potential for long-term health and happiness. Whether you have suffered from depression for years, have just recently felt a change in your mood, or are feeling depression associated with substance use disorder or grief, we can help. 

What is Depression? 

Everyone feels sadness from time to time. We may feel sad in response to a loss, to dreary weather, to tiredness, or to a “bad day.” It’s normal and healthy to experience a range of emotions, including sadness. When that sadness lingers for an extensive period of time, however, and begins to interfere with a person’s ability to function, depression might be at play. 

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms that significantly impair daily functioning and quality of life. In addition to persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness, symptoms of depression may include: 

• loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• changes in appetite or weight
• disturbances in sleep patterns
• fatigue or loss of energy
• feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• difficulty concentrating
• recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. 

The severity and duration of symptoms vary among individuals and may fluctuate over time.

What are the Types of Depression?

Depression encompasses a spectrum of disorders, each with distinct features and diagnostic criteria. Types of depression include the following:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Also known as clinical depression, MDD is characterized by persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. Symptoms include those listed above that persist for at least two weeks and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) or Dysthymia: PDD involves chronic, long-term depression lasting for at least two years in adults. Symptoms are generally less severe than MDD but can lead to functional impairment over an extended period. Individuals with PDD may experience fluctuations in symptom intensity.
• Bipolar Disorder: Formerly known as manic-depressive illness, bipolar disorder involves cycles of depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. Depressive episodes exhibit similar symptoms to MDD, while manic episodes involve elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity, and reduced need for sleep.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): SAD is a type of depression that occurs seasonally, usually during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight. Symptoms include low energy, increased sleep, weight gain, and a craving for carbohydrates.
• Psychotic Depression: Psychotic depression combines depressive symptoms with psychosis, which may involve hallucinations or delusions.
• Postpartum Depression (PPD): PPD occurs in mothers after childbirth and is characterized by feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. It can interfere with the ability to care for oneself and the newborn.
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that leads to significant mood disturbances and functional impairment before menstruation. Symptoms include mood swings, irritability, and feelings of sadness.
• Situational or Reactive Depression: This type of depression is triggered by specific life events, such as loss, trauma, or major changes. Symptoms may be temporary and subside as the individual copes with the situation.

Please note that these descriptions provide a general overview, and individuals may experience a combination of these depression types. At St. Joseph Institute, we provide a comprehensive assessment for each client to help us arrive at an accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plan. 

What Causes Depression? 

There is no one cause for depression. Genetic predisposition, alterations in brain chemistry, stressful life events, trauma, chronic illness, and substance abuse are among the factors that can trigger depression. Additionally, socio-economic disparities, cultural influences, and interpersonal relationships can contribute to the onset and course of the illness.

How is Depression Diagnosed? 

Diagnosing depression involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and psychosocial factors. Here at St. Joseph Institute, our psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists will employ standardized assessment tools as well as in-depth conversation with our clients to help establish a diagnosis (or confirm a previous diagnosis) and formulate an appropriate treatment plan. The assessment will also take into consideration medical conditions and other mental health or substance use issues that may contribute to the depression. 

In cases in which depression occurs alongside substance use disorder (which is called a co-occurring disorder), both conditions will be treated at the same time to improve chances of long-term sobriety and mental health.

How is Depression Treated?

Treatment for depression is catered to each individual client. Our treatment team uses evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, family therapy, psychoeducation, and holistic practices. Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and prevent relapse. 

We also encourage and help our clients establish lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, healthy nutrition, stress management techniques, and social support. 

When depression co-occurs with substance use disorder, treatment may begin with medical detox and include 12-step programming. 

Let St. Joseph Institute Lift the Burden of Depression

Depression is not something you just “get over.” It’s a complex mental health condition that requires professional and compassionate treatment. We provide that care to our clients in Central Pennsylvania. If you have any questions about our program or our admissions process, please contact us. We would be happy to help you find a lighter and more peaceful path.