Depression

Mental Health Disorders We Provide Mental Health Treatment For

Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. At St. Mary’s Wellness Center, we provide comprehensive and compassionate care to help individuals understand and manage their depression, aiming to improve their overall quality of life.

What is Depression?

Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. It involves a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of depression is not entirely understood, a variety of factors may be involved. These include:

Biological differences: People with depression appear to have physical changes in their brain.
Brain chemistry: Neurotransmitter imbalances may contribute to depression.
Hormones: Changes in the body’s balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression.
Inherited traits: Depression is more common in people whose biological family members also have this condition.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of depression can vary from mild to severe and can include:

Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
Irritability
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Decreased energy or fatigue
Moving or talking more slowly
Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
Appetite and/or weight changes
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment

Treatment Options at St. Mary's Wellness Center

St. Mary’s Wellness Center approaches the treatment of depression with a combination of proven methods tailored to the individual’s specific needs:

Medication Management: Antidepressants may be prescribed to help improve the way your brain uses certain chemicals that control mood or stress.
Psychotherapy: Also known as talk therapy, options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are very effective for treating depression.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Guidance on diet, exercise, and sleep can also play a role in managing and mitigating symptoms.
Advanced Treatments: For those who do not respond to traditional treatments, options like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be considered.

Why Choose St. Mary’s Wellness Center?

At St. Mary’s, we recognize that depression is not just a mental state but a complex interplay of psychological, physical, and environmental factors. Our integrated treatment plans are crafted by experienced professionals who focus on holistic recovery, addressing all aspects of an individual’s life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can depression be cured?

While depression can be a chronic condition, many individuals can manage their symptoms with effective treatment and lead healthy, active lives.

How long does it typically take for treatment to work?

The response to treatment varies. Some may feel better within weeks, while others may need longer periods. Consistent treatment is crucial, even if symptoms improve.

Is depression just a lack of willpower?

No, depression is a complex medical condition and not a sign of a person’s weakness or a character flaw. Recovery often requires treatment beyond individual effort.

Can lifestyle changes alone manage depression?

Lifestyle changes can support treatment but are usually not sufficient alone. A comprehensive approach including therapy and sometimes medication is often necessary.

What should I do if I have thoughts of hurting myself or others?

If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or others, seek help immediately. You can contact St. Mary’s Wellness Center or a local mental health service, or call a suicide hotline in your area.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

“My life isn't perfect, but l'm certainly in a better place because of SLOW. Great facility, great showers, great beds, nice outdoor area, solid food, fantastic therapists and groups. Got to meet some nice friends, and get healthier.”

“Southern Live Oak Wellness saved my life. The therapists genuinely care about the clients and helping them get better. Working on yourself is not easy, but the therapists help guide you and make you be able to work through whatever may be going on.”

“I have been to over 5 different treatment centers mainly for substance abuse and was never successful. I came to slow and got to work on my mental health and addiction. I felt so accepted here and finally felt safe. I worked on my trauma while here as well. the staff at slow are very caring and compassionate to the clients and for once I felt loved. I am so grateful for slow and everything they have done for me here.”

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