Depressive Disorders

Living with a depressive disorder can be challenging. Our mental health facilities in Colorado and Illinois are well-staffed and equipped to treat many mood disorders, including depression.

Everybody gets sad. It’s one of our body’s most basic responses to a wide range of life experiences. However, when feelings of sadness or hopelessness persist and are impacting your ability to live day-to-day, it could be a sign of a more serious depressive disorder.

At Elevare Behavioral Health, our comprehensive approach to mental health care incorporates both research-based and holistic practices to support our clients’ recovery from depression and other mood disorders. Our team of mental health professionals will determine your diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

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The healing process can pose many challenges - all of which can be difficult to cope with on your own.

Our team of licensed mental health professionals can help you manage your symptoms and create a new, more fulfilling life.

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If you have coverage of any kind, we will work with you to determine your benefits for mental health treatment. Any information you share with us is kept strictly confidential.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a complex mental health disorder characterized by overwhelming feelings of sadness, anger, and loss that can significantly impede everyday activities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 18.5% of American adults experienced depressive symptoms for 2 weeks in 2019.

It’s not uncommon for depression to impact self-esteem and result in self-loathing. With that being said, depressive disorders can manifest differently for everyone. In general, depressive disorders put a strain on interpersonal relationships and exacerbate certain chronic medical conditions.

For this reason, our clinical approach incorporates research-based treatment methods to address the various factors that contribute to the different types of depressive disorders.

Who Is at Risk for Depressive Disorders?

Depressive disorders can affect anyone. Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing an depressive disorder. They include:

Family History

Having a family history of depression or other mood disorders can increase the risk of developing a depressive disorder. This suggests that genetics and shared environmental factors may play a role in developing one of these mental health conditions.

Brain Function

Brain imaging tests of people with mood disorders depict differences in several areas of brain function and size. These studies found that regions of the brain, such as the amygdala, that assist in emotional control performed differently in people who suffer from depression when compared to healthy brains. For this reason, people who have impairments in the emotional regulation portions of the brain are more likely to struggle with mood-related disorders.

Gender

Women tend to have a higher prevalence of depression and other depressive disorders compared to men. This is due to a combination of biological, hormonal, and societal factors.

Childhood Trauma

Traumatic experiences during childhood can increase the risk of developing depressive disorders later in life. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been linked to various mental health conditions, including depression.

Traumatic childhood experiences can include:

Chronic Medical Condition

Some chronic medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, and chronic pain, can increase the risk of developing depressive disorders. The physical symptoms and limitations associated with these conditions can contribute to depression.

Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorder can increase the risk of developing depressive disorders. Substance use may be an attempt to self-medicate depressive symptoms, but it can exacerbate depression and other depressive disorders in the long run.

Life Stressors

High levels of chronic stress, major life transitions, or significant traumatic events can trigger or worsen depressive symptoms.

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Types of Depressive Disorders

In the same way that each of our clients is unique, so are the different types of depression. For this reason, we provide comprehensive mental health services tailored to treat the eight types of depressive mood disorders.

Types of Depression

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Also known as:

major depression, clinical depression, depression, unipolar depression

Major depressive disorder (MDD), or clinical depression, is the most common type of depression. MDD is characterized by several symptoms that must be present for at least two weeks, including a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in activities, fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulties concentrating, feelings of worthlessness and guilty, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Common symptoms of major depression include:

Depression can also lead to physical symptoms, such as body aches, headaches, and digestive issues. Treatment for major depression usually involves talk therapy and medication. In cases of severe depression, hospitalization may be necessary. With proper treatment, people with MDD can often manage their symptoms and live productive lives.

Psychotic Depression

Also known as:

major depression with psychotic features, depressive psychosis

Psychotic depression is a type of depression that involves symptoms of both psychosis and depression. What sets psychotic depression apart from major depressive disorder is the psychotic features.

People who experience this type of depressive disorder commonly experience symptoms such as:

Unique symptoms of psychotic depression may include:

The false beliefs associated with psychotic depression can be frightening. Similarly, seeing or hearing things that feel real but aren’t based in reality can lead to behaviors such as social withdrawal and isolation. Additionally, psychotic delusions and hallucinations can dangerously warp your concept of death or reality. This may make you feel more paranoid, believing that people are out to get them or that they’re being watched.

The risks of psychotic depression are high as it can lead to suicidal ideation and attempts. Complications can arise from this condition, and it can often become chronic and difficult to treat. However, through compassionate and understanding mental health treatment, you can find relief from psychotic depression and regain your quality of life.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Also known as:

major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern, seasonal depression

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months when there is less sunlight. While typical depression causes a person to feel sad or “down” most of the time, SAD can cause swings between feeling very depressed and then relatively normal. Symptoms of SAD include social withdrawal, fatigue, changes in appetite and weight, increased need for sleep, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of despair.

Common symptoms of seasonal depression include:

People who struggle with seasonal depression often experience a depressed mood, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, appetite changes, and sleep disturbances. Unlike MDD however, people who experience this subtype often show signs of atypical depression. For example, typical depression often results in poor sleep and weight loss whereas seasonal depression commonly presents with patterns of oversleeping, overeating, and weight gain.

Identifying the pattern of depressive symptoms is key in diagnosing seasonal depression. Symptoms typically emerge from October to November and abate in March or April. With that being said, some people begin experiencing a mental decline as early as August or as late as January. Regardless of onset, full mental recovery usually occurs before the middle of May.

Postpartum Depression

Also known as:

peripartum depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a severe form of depression that can affect mothers during pregnancy or soon after giving birth and may last for up to one year or longer. While the experience of childbirth is often viewed as a joyful time, PPD can cause feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness.

Postpartum depression symptoms can include:

Low mood or severe mood swings
Excessive crying
Difficulty bonding with the newborn baby
Fears of being a bad mother
Withdrawing from family and friends
Loss of appetite or overeating
Overwhelming tiredness or loss of energy
Lack of interest and pleasure in activities
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Shame, guilt, and thoughts of inadequacy

Decreased ability to think
Poor concentration
Indecisiveness
Restlessness
Severe anxiety
Panic attacks
Irritability and anger
Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby
Sensitivity to criticism or rejection
Ruminating thoughts about death or suicide

New mothers who suffer from PDD also experience a depressed mood and/or loss of interest in pleasurable activities with the first four weeks of giving birth. Difficulties bonding with their newborn baby can lead to dangerous complications associated with PDD. Fears of being a bad mother can result in thoughts of self-harm, hurting the baby, death, and suicide. For this reason, it is important to recognize these signs and symptoms early on so that appropriate treatment can be provided.

Mental health treatment for postpartum depression can be lifesaving, including intensive therapies, medication management, lifestyle modifications, support groups, or a combination of all these approaches.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Also known as:

premenstrual depression, severe premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a cyclical, hormone-based form of depression that affects many women during the week or two leading up to their menstrual cycle. Often misunderstood, the symptoms of PMDD can be severe and disrupting to daily life.

The symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder include:

The effects of PMDD symptoms can cause women to miss work, school, or social engagements, and can strain relationships. It’s important to note that PMDD is not simply a case of PMS or “bad moods.” Instead, it is a more severe form of depression that requires medical attention.

If left untreated, PMDD can increase the chances of developing other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. It’s also crucial to note that there are several different types of PMDD, and not all women experience the same symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms of PMDD, it’s important to seek professional help for your mental health.

Atypical Depression

Also known as:

major depression with atypical features

Atypical depression is a subtype of depression that is often misunderstood due to its unique symptoms. Rather than experiencing the typical symptoms of sadness and lack of energy, people with atypical depression experience a different set of symptoms.

Atypical depression symptoms include:

These symptoms are unique to atypical depressive disorder but they can result in the same level of distress. While atypical depression presents differently in some cases, people also experience many of the typical depressive symptoms as well.

Common depressive symptoms found in atypical depression include:

While these behaviors may seem harmless, they can have serious effects on an individual’s daily life and overall well-being. Atypical depression can also increase your risk of developing other mental health disorders such as anxiety and substance abuse. For this reason, it is important to properly identify and treat atypical depression to minimize potential complications.

Different types of atypical depression exist, such as seasonal affective disorder and postpartum depression, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment approaches. As with any mental health issue, seeking professional help is crucial in managing the symptoms and achieving long-term recovery.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Also known as:

chronic depression, dysthymic disorder, dysthymia

Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) is a less severe but more chronic form of depression. PDD, also known as dysthymia, is characterized by many symptoms that must be present for at least two years, including a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in activities, fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulties concentrating, feelings of worthlessness and guilty, and thoughts of death or suicide.

People with persistent depressive disorder (PDD) experience a range of mild depressive symptoms. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) as a combination of chronic major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder symptoms.

According to the DSM-5, to receive a diagnosis of dysthymia, you must experience several of the related symptoms for at least two years:

Poor appetite or overeating
Insomnia or hypersomnia
Low energy or fatigue
Low self-esteem
Poor concentration or difficulty making decisions
Feelings of hopelessness

The symptoms of dysthymia may also cause distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. It’s also important to note that the symptoms of persistent depressive disorder (PDD) are not a side effect of alcohol or drug abuse.

Bipolar Disorder (BD)

Also known as:

manic depression, manic-depressive disorder

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a type of depression that is characterized by periods of mania or hypomania alternating with periods of depression. The disorder is broken down into three main types which include:

While there is no known method that can prevent the onset of bipolar disorder, treatment can mitigate symptoms and related challenges. The highs and lows of bipolar disorder have the potential to significantly disrupt a person’s life, often leading to dangerous behaviors, such as reckless behavior, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts.

Entering treatment for bipolar disorder can help you create a plan for managing the condition and building strategies to cope with its effects. During therapy for bipolar, our experienced mental health professionals will help you in learning mindfulness techniques to identify and reduce triggers that can bring on mood swings, such as stress or lack of sleep. With support from mental health professionals, you will receive guidance and advice to help you better cope with bipolar disorder

Treatment for Depressive Disorder

At Elevare Behavioral Health, we provide treatment for depressive disorders that can help you learn to manage the disorder and gain skills to cope with its effects. Our experienced mental health professionals will create an individualized treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

The goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms of depression and help you develop effective strategies for dealing with stressors or triggers that can trigger further episodes. With our comprehensive approach, we will provide you with the tools and resources that are necessary to help manage your depressive disorder. We believe in empowering our patients to take charge of their recovery journey by combining research-based therapy, medication management, lifestyle changes, and social support.

At Elevare Behavioral Health, you will gain the skills needed to help you manage your depression in the long term. We are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way. Our team is committed to helping you lead a happier, healthier life.

What To Expect During Treatment for Depression

At Elevare, we understand the unique challenges that come with diagnosing and treating depressive disorders. Our team of experienced mental health professionals is dedicated to providing personalized care for each client and their needs.

In treating depression, our compassionate clinical staff works one-on-one to help increase coping skills, emotional regulation, and insight to help individuals manage their depression. Utilizing research-based therapies and treatments, our clinicians facilitate a warm, accepting, and nonjudgmental atmosphere to foster growth in the recovery process.

Individuals may also participate in group therapy sessions along with other clients who struggle with similar experiences of depression. We offer support groups as well as individual counseling sessions that are tailored to best meet the needs of our patients. Our highly trained clinicians also work closely with primary care physicians and psychiatrists to create a comprehensive plan for health and wellness. We provide the tools necessary for individuals to make strides towards achieving long-term goals of recovery.

Therapies for Depressive Disorders

Treatment for depression varies based on individual circumstances and may include talk therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Research-based therapies can help you identify triggers that contribute to depressive episodes, empowering you to develop healthier strategies for managing symptoms.

Common depressive disorder therapies include:

While in treatment for a depressive disorder, the goal is to make positive changes wherever possible. This includes identifying triggers, building coping skills, improving your ability to communicate with others, and learning new, healthy ways to cope with stress.

While undergoing treatment for depressive disorders, you can:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is another type of treatment that can be very helpful for those struggling with depressive disorders. This type of therapy focuses on recognizing and changing negative thoughts and behaviors that are contributing to depression. In general, CBT is held on a weekly basis to provide routine assistance throughout the treatment process. During outpatient treatment, our therapists can teach you new ways of understanding the link between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

A key part of cognitive-behavioral therapy is the process of identifying, challenging, and changing the negative thoughts that contribute to your depressive disorder. Once you understand how unhealthy beliefs can influence your behaviors, CBT connections can help you develop healthier ways of thinking, coping, and interacting with others.

This type of therapy also helps you to identify triggers for depression, such as negative self-talk and avoidance. With CBT, you can become aware of these triggers and learn how to break the patterns that cause them. You will be able to work with your therapist to develop strategies for managing your depression symptoms more effectively. As you participate in CBT therapy for depression, you can learn to navigate life’s inevitable highs and lows with stress management and problem-solving techniques.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a psychotherapy technique used in treating various depressive disorders. The primary goal of DBT is to employ skill-based exercises to address and manage stress. At its core, DBT teaches you healthy coping skills for mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance.

During each therapy session, our DBT-certified therapist will guide you through exercises that will help you identify and manage your emotions. By understanding the causes of negative emotions and irrational thoughts, you can develop healthier ways to cope with life’s challenges.

These skills are meant to be used outside of the therapy session in order to practice self-care consistently. With DBT, you will learn how to constructively manage emotions and reduce impulsiveness while developing a greater sense of insight into your own behavior. The goal of DBT is to ultimately create an emotional balance that allows you to achieve a healthier lifestyle, free from unnecessary suffering and pain with a greater level of control over your depressive symptoms.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy is a form of talk therapy that aims to uncover unconscious emotional conflicts, identify the root causes of depression, and understand how past events have shaped present behavior. This therapy focuses on exploring repressed memories and unresolved issues from childhood in order to gain insight into current relationships and behaviors. By talking through these experiences with a qualified therapist, you can learn more about yourself while developing coping skills for symptom management.

Psychodynamic therapy can benefit treatment for depression by encouraging lasting behavioral changes and providing a better understanding of how your mind works. With this insight, you can begin to make decisions that will help cultivate healthier relationships, boost self-esteem, and improve overall well-being. For this reason, psychodynamic therapy also provides support in managing stress, anxiety, and other forms of mental health issues. Along with talk therapy, the psychodynamic approach often includes written assignments or activities that are designed to help uncover deeper unconscious thought processes. This additional component can make the process more meaningful and effective by allowing you to reflect on your thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgmental space.

As you participate in psychodynamic therapy, you can gain insight into yourself so that you can move forward with more positive and meaningful relationships with those around you. With the help of an experienced therapist, you can learn healthier coping strategies for managing stress and work towards lasting change in how you approach life.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a specialized therapy approach designed to treat depression. During treatment for depression, the therapy is divided into three distinct phases. The first phase aims to reframe the negative thoughts that can fuel depressive disorders. As you participate in IPT, your therapist will encourage you to view your depression as a challenge that can be managed rather than a personal weakness. In the second phase, you and your therapist will collaborate in addressing specific issues in your life. During treatment for depression, IPT will help you to process any stressful or upsetting situations in your life such as role transitions, conflicts, or grief.

To build your resilience, IPT role-playing exercises encourage you to openly express your emotions through effective communication. Throughout your treatment for depression, IPT also teaches you how to create a supportive social network of close, trustworthy relationships. In the final phase, you and your therapist will evaluate your progress, address any existing concerns, and ensure you’re able to tackle future challenges with confidence.

Medication For Depressive Disorders

In order to receive a safe and effective treatment for a depressive mood disorder, all psychiatric medications must be prescribed by licensed and certified mental health professionals. During outpatient mental health treatment, medication management services help to ensure all your medications are being taken correctly and monitored for any potential interactions or side effects. Often, medications are provided in combination with talk therapy treatments for the most effective recovery.

If you would like to find out more about the right medication for your needs, call for a consultation with our mental health treatment providers. We are happy to discuss the medication management services we offer for depressive disorders.

Antidepressant Medications

There are several medications proven effective in the treatment of depressive disorders. Some of the most common medications used to treat depression are antidepressants such as:

Antidepressant medications can help reduce the symptoms of several depressive disorders as well as other mental health conditions. These medications can help to improve mood, sleep patterns, concentration, and overall functioning.

It is important to remember that it takes time for antidepressants to become effective, so it is important to stick with the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment before judging their effectiveness. It’s also important to talk to your psychiatrist if you are experiencing any side effects or if your symptoms persist or worsen. Your mental health care team can work with you to adjust the dose, switch medications, or suggest other therapies that could help you manage your condition.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Generally speaking, the most commonly used medications for the treatment of depression are SSRIs. These medications work by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood. They can help improve symptoms such as sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating.

There are several different types of SSRI medications available, including:

It is important to note that SSRIs take several weeks to become fully effective, so it may be necessary to continue taking the medication for some time before experiencing relief. Additionally, some people might experience side effects from SSRI medications, including nausea, insomnia, and weight gain. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor prior to starting medication.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Other antidepressants used to treat depressive disorders are called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) medications. These work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are two neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. SNRIs can be helpful for people who don’t respond to SSRI-based medications or have difficulty tolerating them.

Common SNRI medications include:

SNRIs are generally well tolerated, but they can cause some side effects. These may include fatigue, headaches, dry mouth, and weight gain. During treatment for depressive disorders, your doctor will explain the potential benefits and risks associated with SNRI medications before you start taking them.

Other Medications for Depressive Disorders

Depending on your depressive disorder, potential co-occurring disorders, and unique circumstances, your psychiatrist at Elevare may prescribe other medications such as lithium, antipsychotics, and antianxiety drugs. These medications can be provided in place of or in combination with antidepressants.

It’s important to note that different individuals may respond better to certain types of medications than others. For those with treatment-resistant depression, we may prescribe Spravato (esketamine).

For all medications we prescribe, we will provide guidance on how to manage side effects and answer other questions you may have about your prescription.

Depressive Disorder Treatment Options

At Elevare Behavioral Health, we provide a comprehensive range of services to support individuals with depressive disorders. Our treatment approach involves research-based therapies and medication to effectively manage symptoms of depression and other depressive disorders. Our dedicated team of mental health professionals is committed to helping you follow the path to recovery. We offer unique levels of care to ensure that everyone can find a safe and effective treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. Overcoming the challenges associated with depressive disorders is our shared goal.

“We take pride in our work and are committed to making each of our clients happy.”

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