logo

Depression

Depression

Depression services offered in Canonsburg, Washington and Philadelphia, PA

One in five teens and 8% of adults struggle through their days with depression (major depressive disorder). Depression won’t improve without treatment from the exceptional mental health professionals at Pioneer Counseling and Consulting in Canonsburg, Washington, and Bala Cynwyd (near Philadelphia), Pennsylvania. They help people of all ages overcome depression with therapy and medication. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call the nearest office or book an in-person or telehealth visit online today.

Depression Q & A

What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that profoundly affects every aspect of your life. While many people think depression is similar to the blues, the two conditions are not the same.

Life events trigger the blues, which is a mild sadness compared with depression. Most importantly, the blues are temporary and tend to improve over time.

Depression deeply affects your mental, emotional, behavioral, and physical well-being. While depression can also begin after a life event like losing a job, moving, or learning that someone you love is sick, it can also appear for no apparent reason.

Genetic tendencies, lifestyle habits, stress, and imbalanced brain chemicals can contribute to depression.

No matter the cause, depression is a serious illness that doesn’t improve without treatment. If you need compassionate care, reach out to Pioneer Counseling and Consulting today.

Are there different types of depression?

Yes, you can develop several types of depression, including:

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

MDD, the clinical name for depression, negatively affects how you think, feel, and act. You feel depressed (sad and hopeless) nearly every day for at least two weeks.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)

DMDD is a disorder that affects children and teens, causing severe and frequent temper outbursts.

Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)

Dysthymia causes symptoms of depression on most days and lasts at least two years for adults and one year for children.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

PMDD causes depression, mood swings, energy loss, and physical symptoms about 7-10 days before menstruation.

Perinatal depression

This major depressive disorder begins during pregnancy or in the months following delivery.

Seasonal depression

The clinical name for seasonal depression is major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern. This condition causes severe and often overwhelming depression during the fall and winter months.

How is depression treated?

The licensed therapists at Pioneer Counseling and Consulting offer comprehensive care for depression. Your treatment can include antidepressants, talk therapy, or, in many cases, a combination of the two.

Therapy might be the only treatment needed for mild depression. Your therapist will help you learn to manage negative thoughts and emotions and develop a plan to deal with the circumstances that caused your depression.

Your therapist could prescribe antidepressants for moderate to severe depression. These medications restore healthy brain chemistry, improving your mood and providing the energy and focus needed to benefit from therapy.

Seek help right away for depression; it won’t improve with time. Schedule an appointment online or call the nearest Pioneer Counseling and Consulting office today.