Depression
Depression is a common and serious mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 8.3% of adults in the United States have had at least one major depressive episode. People who experience depression often struggle with irritability, persistent low moods, guilt, self-worth issues, difficulty concentrating, and sometimes thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Depression can also cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in appetite or weight, changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or hypersomnia), physical aches and pains, digestive problems, and slowed movements or speech. Symptoms range from minor to severe and can have a major impact on an individual's quality of life, preventing them from managing work, school, relationships, or responsibilities at home. If you are experiencing depression, it is important to know that you are not alone and recovery is possible. Our therapists are available to help you through depression towards a more enjoyable life. Therapy is a safe space to express your struggles without judgment or stigma.
Depression is rarely caused by one specific event; rather it is often due to several factors. In sessions, therapists will work with you to identify and challenge the experiences, thought patterns, and beliefs that trigger depression to help you understand the root causes of your feelings. By understanding how your brain works, you are better resourced and able to pursue healing. Therapy can also provide you with strategies to cope with and manage depressive feelings, such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques or finding activities that bring you happiness. The goal of therapy is to help you overcome depression so you can live a more fulfilling and joyful life.
Sometimes imbalances in a person’s brain chemistry can cause depression and medication is needed for treatment. We work with psychiatrists to prescribe and monitor antidepressant medications that can help stabilize neurochemical levels and alleviate symptoms of depression. For more information, inquiries@minnesotarenewal.org.
Depression can have serious consequences for well-being, and when left untreated increases the risk for self-harm or suicide. If you or a loved one are having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or in the Twin Cities metro area call **CRISIS (**274747) or text MN to 741741. These resources and more are also available on our crisis resources tab.