Depressive Disorders

According to the World Health Organization, more than 300 million people worldwide are affected by depression. In the US, almost 7% of the population had at least one major depressive episode in the past year.

What is Depression?

Depression is a serious mood disorder, often characterized by persistently negative mood, changes in sleep and eating patterns, sadness, and loss of interest in activities. These symptoms affect how you feel, the way you think, and how you act, often causing significant impairment in your life. Additional symptoms may include changes in energy level, concentration, social relationships, and/or self-esteem. Women are at a higher risk for developing depressive disorders.

The three most common types of depression are:

1. Major Depressive Disorder 

2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

3. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

There are two different types of depressive conditions that are influenced by reproductive hormones:

• Perinatal Depression

This includes depressive episodes during pregnancy and/or in the first year after delivery (postpartum depression).

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

This is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome.

Although we treat a variety of mental illnesses at HopeWay, Depressive Disorders are the most common. 60% of our clients have a depressive disorder either as a primary or co-occurring disorder.