Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is a fact of life for millions of Americans, including children. Triggered by a number of factors, including heredity, this mental health issue has similar symptoms among age groups. However, its triggers can vary.
Let’s talk about what you should know about this potentially difficult but treatable problem and where you can go in Richmond, Martinsville, and Danville, VA,for effective depressive disorder management.
Major Depressive Disorder Symptoms and Their Triggers by Age Group
Depression is very real and differs from person to person and from age group to age group. However, in terms of symptoms, there are commonalities no matter the age of the person. Symptoms of this prevalent mental health problem are:
- Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness lasting two weeks or more
- Limited interest in once-enjoyed activities
- Insomnia or sleeping excessively
- Poor concentration and memory (particularly among the elderly)
- Thoughts of failure and self-doubt
- Self-harm or suicidal plans and verbalizations
- Slow movements
- Low energy
- Anger and irritability
- Poor grooming and appetite.
Children who are depressed may exhibit clinginess with parents and caregivers, take little interest in personal hygiene, and all but ignore pets, sports, and friends.
Teens may begin failing in school and stop seeing close friends. They may “mouth off” at parents, teachers, and other authority figures and sleep far too much. Risky behaviors, such as drinking and fast driving, may develop.
Finally, seniors may feel depressed because they cannot do the things, they did ata young age. Also, their health conditions and medications decrease emotional resiliency, and even mild cognitive and memory changes impact mood and function. Many seniors experience the loss of a spouse, relatives, or friends and changes in their living situations and independence.
Mental Health Services in Richmond, Martinsville, and Danville, VA
At Epic Health Partners, our professional team cares for individuals who wish to overcome substance and alcohol use issues, mental health problems, learning and life skills issues,etc. We provide outpatient, community-based services, which are holistic and highly individualized, and we work to support individuals in the least restrictive environment possible.
If you or your loved ones have a mental health need, such as depression, come talk to one of our caring providers. We have helped hundreds, and we wish to partner with you in doing the same.
Call for an appointment at (434) 835-4601, or look at our homepage for the contact information at a clinic near you. Plus, if you have thoughts of self-harm, don’t wait. Call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Line at (800) 273-TALK (8255), or text HOME to 741-741. There is always hope.
