Depression is more than feeling sad–it is a complex and pervasive mental health condition that affects a person’s ability to function in daily life. It affects more than 17.3 million Americans or about 7.1% of the population. Without proper treatment, depression can get worse over time, resulting in physical and psychological health problems. In severe cases, untreated depression can lead to suicidal ideologies and attempts.
Depression Treatment Program
Moving Mountains Recovery, based in Randolph, New Jersey, offers a comprehensive and unique approach to addiction recovery.
Medically Verified: April 8, 2024
Medical Reviewer:
Kelly Donald
Kelly Donald
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Kelly is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master of Science degree in Nursing with a concentration in mental health at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Kelly has fourteen years nursing experience as a Registered Nurse, Nurse Manager, and Advanced Practice Nurse in both psychiatric and substance use disorder settings. She has worked in inpatient settings as well as provided community nursing as a Nurse Practitioner. Kelly brings empathy to an underserved population and her clients share that they feel listened to without judgement.
All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.
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At Moving Mountains Recovery, we hold a firm belief that the root cause of addiction must be treated in order for people to recover and enjoy healthy, fulfilling lives. That’s why our program is designed to assess your individual needs and provide treatment that’s right for you. Since we often see clients who have depression or have developed depression as a result of their substance abuse, we offer comprehensive depression treatment programs in New Jersey.
Depression, often referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD) or clinical depression, is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. It is not just a passing mood but a debilitating condition that can affect a person’s thoughts, behaviors, and physical health.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Persistent sadness
- Fatigue
- Appetite changes
- Poor sleep
- Feelings of guilt
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lack of motivation
- Anxiety
- Thoughts of suicide
To be diagnosed with depression, symptoms must persist for at least two weeks. They must also significantly affect your daily life. Some people experience constant depression while others experience recurring depression episodes. It’s important to note that not everyone with depression experiences the same symptoms, and their severity can vary.
Understanding the Different Types of Depression
Depression is not a one-size-fits-all condition; it comes in various forms, all with similar symptoms, but each with its own unique characteristics and triggers. Understanding these different types is crucial for effective diagnosis and successful treatment. Some of the most common types of depression include:
Also known as clinical depression, this is the classic form of depression characterized by persistent and severe symptoms, often leading to a complete disruption of daily life. People may have trouble getting out of bed, getting motivated to do tasks, or enjoy social relationships. It can occur once or recur multiple times.
Dysthymia is a chronic form of depression that lasts for two years or longer. While the symptoms may not be as severe as MDD, they persist over an extended period, making it challenging to experience sustained happiness or contentment.
SAD is a type of depression triggered by seasonal changes, typically occurring in the fall and winter when there is less natural sunlight. It is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, increased sleep, and weight gain.
Occurring after childbirth, postpartum depression affects some new mothers, leading to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. It is essential to recognize and treat this condition promptly to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
If you or someone you love struggles with any type of depression, our New Jersey treatment program can provide the care and support you need.
The Relationship Between Depression and Substance Abuse
Nobody likes to feel depressed, but for most people, feelings of depression go away. But with people suffering from depression, these feelings can feel never-ending. Extreme feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and shame can hold people back from truly enjoying life, and individuals often find themselves desperate for some type of relief.
Some individuals with depression turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances as a way to cope with their emotional pain. While these substances may provide temporary relief, they ultimately exacerbate depression symptoms and can lead to addiction.
On the flip side, individuals who abuse substances are at a higher risk of developing depression. The chemical changes in the brain caused by substance abuse can disrupt mood regulation, making it more likely for depression to take hold. People who have no previous history of depression may experience depression as a result of their substance abuse.
At the same time, both depression and substance abuse share common risk factors, such as genetic predisposition, childhood trauma, and environmental stressors. These overlapping factors can contribute to the co-occurrence of these conditions.
Treatment for Depression
Thankfully, depression is an entirely treatable condition, and with individualized care, anyone can recover. Depression treatment programs in New Jersey can help individuals find effective solutions for their condition and pave the way for recovery from drugs and alcohol.
There are several treatment options for depression and addiction, including:
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or behavioral therapy, involves working with a trained therapist to identify and address the underlying causes of depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are two widely used approaches. These therapies can help alleviate symptoms of depression and introduce healthy coping skills into the person’s life.
Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can help regulate brain chemicals and alleviate depression symptoms. Medication is most effective when combined with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, it can take several tries to find the medication that works for each individual, as everyone is different.
Healthy lifestyle habits can play a significant role in managing and preventing depression. For example, regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and stress reduction techniques like mindfulness meditation or yoga can improve mood and overall well-being. They can also prevent depression from coming back.
Participating in a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding for individuals dealing with depression and substance abuse issues. Sharing experiences and coping strategies with others who can relate can be incredibly beneficial for recovery from both conditions.
Our Depression Treatment Program in New Jersey
At Moving Mountains Recovery, our depression treatment program embraces a holistic approach, aiming to improve all areas of clients’ lives. Combining individual therapy, group counseling, family support, adventure therapy, and access to medical and psychiatric support when needed, clients receive comprehensive support for their physical and mental health.
We tailor each of our depression treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each person. We recognize that depression is a deeply personal challenge and are committed to treating it with the utmost compassion.
By focusing on the whole person rather than just the addiction, we’re able to help our clients manage their depression effectively and achieve a sober, joyous future.
Get Started With our New Jersey Depression Treatment Program
If you or a loved one are grappling with depression and addiction, rest assured that help is just a phone call away. To explore our depression treatment programs in New Jersey or to begin with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please reach out to us today.
References:
- National Institute on Mental Health: Major Depression, Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression
- National Institute on Mental Health: What is Depression? Retrieved September 2023 from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression
