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Clinical Depression is Serious – It’s More than Sadness

Patient with a Therapist

Everyone will experience sadness once in a while.  It is a part of life. However, clinical depression means much more than being sad. One of every eight Americans suffers from depression at least once in their lifetime.  Estimates show that about 25 million Americans will have an episode of clinical depression this year alone, but only half will receive treatment. All age groups and all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups experience depression.

Clinical depression has many symptoms but some of the most common are sadness, anxiety, change in appetite or weight, trouble sleeping, loss of concentration, decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities, isolation, and a feeling of helplessness and hopelessness. If left untreated, the frequency and severity of these symptoms tend to increase over time causing years of needless pain and suffering and, often times, death. Yet, it is one of the most treatable psychiatric conditions.  More than 80 percent of people with depression can be helped with medication and counseling.

Today, the availability of treatment and understanding of depression is better than ever before. Making it easier for mental health clinicians to detect, diagnose, and recommend the most appropriate level of care. Organizations such as NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) offer support and education and can direct you to professionals in your area that can help.

Asking for help can be very difficult for someone suffering from depression, and talking to someone who is clearly depressed can feel uncomfortable and awkward. The last thing you want to do is say something “wrong,” sometimes the best thing to say is “I will get you help.”

Peak Behavioral Hospital has counselors available 24/7 and can assess the severity of a person’s depression and provide guidance for accessing resources to help. Assessments can be completed over the phone with one of our counselors and do not require an appointment to just show up at Peak Behavioral. A counselor will meet with individuals in distress at the door and guide them through the assessment process.

Peak Behavioral Hospital is a licensed psychiatric hospital located at 5055 McNutt Rd, Santa Teresa, NM 88008.  If you or someone you know is experiencing depression or other mental health distress, please call 575-589-3000 for immediate help or visit http://peakbehavioral.com.

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