Clinical Depression

Over the course of a year, it is estimated that 17.3 million American adults succumb to at least one depressive episode. This accounts for approximately 7.1 percent of the adult population in the United States.

But “depression” is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. Everyone experiences emotions differently and processes pain as bravely as they can.

• 1.5 percent of Americans experience persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia. This is a condition that lasts for two years or more, making it a chronic concern for those caught in its grip.
• Bipolar disorder affects roughly 2.8 percent of individuals in the United States in a given year. This condition is characterized by manic (high energy, frantic) episodes alternating with depressive episodes.
• As many as 5 percent of the American populace experiences seasonal depression, brought on by a lack on sunlight in the winter months.
• A staggering 80 percent of new mothers come down with “baby blues” – a sadness that accompanies childbirth. More concerning is the fact that 10-15 percent of young moms may develop postpartum depression, which is more serious than merely a short-term expression of fatigue.
• One of the most debilitating forms of depression is called psychotic depression. Patients who struggle with this strain of the condition report hallucinations and paranoid delusions stemming from their depression. It is estimated that one out of every 13 people in the world will experience some form of psychotic depression before the age of 75.

Even if you answered “Sometimes” to any of the preceding questions, it is an indication that you may need a helping hand, a supportive shoulder, or an open ear, heart, and mind to accept you. That is a perfect description of our dedicated team – we are the sum of our sympathetic parts!

When it comes to self-improvement, the most difficult step to take is often the first. We want to make it easier. Click here, begin your application process, and chart a path to a better tomorrow.