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Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, affecting a third of women and a fifth of men. The World Health Organization describes it as the leading contributor to disease burden. It can impact your overall well-being and productivity at work or school. Fortunately, kingwood depression therapies are more accessible through telemedicine and in-person counseling.
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Difference between stress and depression
It is common for people to use the terms stress and depression interchangeably. While similar in some ways, they refer to different mental conditions.
Stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed by tasks or situations. It can happen when there is pressure to perform beyond your capacity. Stress may emerge from feeling overworked with school studies or assignments from work.
You may find it difficult to concentrate or sleep at night when stressed. Your eating habits may change, and you may feel anxious, irritable, or frustrated. However, symptoms of stress are temporary and not as intense as depression.
Depression describes a long-term and more severe form of mental distress. You may lack enthusiasm, making you feel hopeless and restless.
While stress is a reaction to a challenging situation, depression lasts for weeks and even months. Depression can reduce your sex drive, diminish sleep quality, and cause physical pain. Its symptoms are more persistent than stress symptoms.
One of the distinguishing symptoms of depression is the loss of interest in activities that they found enjoyable in the past. That may include hobbies or social interactions. People with depression may become more isolated with time.
Managing stress and depression
Stress and depression can worsen with time, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and mental health problems. Severe cases may lead to poor performance at work or suicidal thoughts. But you can manage depression by adjusting some of your lifestyle habits.
Make a point of engaging in physical activities like jogging or swimming. Exercise releases feel-good hormones, which relieve symptoms of depression.
Consider taking up a hobby that allows you to interact with peers to build your confidence. Engaging in community work may help you change your perspective regarding your problems.
Avoid taking alcohol and drugs, even though they may seem to offer temporary relief. Alcoholic drinks are depressants that can worsen symptoms like fatigue and restlessness. They can also contribute to insomnia or the loss of appetite.
Treatment options for depression
You can manage stress with healthy activities like exercise and social interactions. However, you may want to see a psychiatrist if you feel overwhelmed, isolated, or suicidal. You can schedule a diagnosis and psychotherapy treatment through telemedicine.
There are different approaches to psychotherapy treatment for depression. Cognitive therapy empowers patients to break the cycle of negative thoughts. The process helps them identify unhealthy lifestyle patterns and replace them with positive ones.
Depending on your diagnosis, your provider will prescribe antidepressants. Antidepressants can relieve depression symptoms. The process may involve several modalities, including medication and psychotherapy, to ensure the best treatment outcomes.
Contact Kingwood Psychiatry to schedule your telemedicine appointment for depression today.
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