» Understanding Depression

Depression manifests in several different forms, each with distinct symptoms and patterns. Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common form, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities for at least two weeks. Persistent depressive disorder (PDD), also known as dysthymia, involves a more chronic, low-grade depression lasting for at least two years, with symptoms that may be less severe but are longer lasting. Bipolar disorder includes episodes of both deep depression and extreme elation (mania), with depressive episodes resembling MDD. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) typically occurs in the winter months when there’s less sunlight, causing symptoms like low energy, irritability, and a craving for carbohydrates. Postpartum depression affects women after childbirth, with symptoms ranging from severe fatigue and sadness to anxiety and trouble bonding with the baby. Psychotic depression is a severe form of depression where a person may experience delusions or hallucinations along with typical depressive symptoms. Lastly, atypical depression is marked by mood reactivity (feeling better in response to positive events) and symptoms like increased sleep, weight gain, and heavy limbs. Each type of depression has its own nuances and requires specific treatment approaches.

Signs of Depression

Knowing the signs of depression can help you or someone you care about get help. Here are some common signs:

• Sadness: Feeling sad most of the day.
• Loss of Interest: Not enjoying activities you once loved.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time.
• Changes in Weight: Eating too much or too little.
• Sleep Issues: Sleeping too much or not enough.
• Feelings of Worthlessness: Feeling like you are not good enough.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Having trouble focusing on tasks.

If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, it might be time to reach out for help.

» Treatment Options for Depression

The good news is that depression is one of the most treatable mental health disorders. At North Shore Psychology, we utilize a Cognitive-Behavioral approach to treatment. This method helps change negative thoughts and behaviors. By learning new ways to think, you can start to improve your mood and create lasting change in your life.

Benefits of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is proven to be effective for treating depression. Here are some benefits:

• Identifying Negative Thoughts: You can learn to notice unhelpful thoughts.
• Changing Behaviors: The therapy encourages positive actions.
• Building Coping Skills: You can develop tools for handling tough feelings.
• Improving Mood: By changing the way you think, your mood can improve.
• ns were life-changing. I feel more in control." – Maria K.

In-Person and Virtual Options

We know that each person has unique needs. That's why we offer both in-person and virtual therapy sessions for depression. Both male and female therapists are also available as well as spanish speaking therapists.

• In-Person Sessions: Our office is located in Hauppauge, Long Island. Many patients prefer face-to-face interactions, finding this setting helpful for building trust and comfort. Many of our clients are local like you and travel from the following towns: commack, smithtown, dix hills, stonybrook, northport, greenlawn, loyd harbor, oysterbay, ronkonkoma, and holbrook.
• Virtual Sessions: If you cannot come to the office, our virtual sessions provide a convenient solution. You can connect with us from the comfort of your home. This option is perfect for those with busy schedules or who live throughout New York State.

» Literary Resources

1. "The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression" by Andrew Solomon
   • This comprehensive and deeply personal exploration of depression blends memoir, research, and history. Solomon tackles the various aspects of the illness, from its causes and symptoms to the impact on individuals and society. It won numerous awards and is considered one of the definitive works on depression.
2. "Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression – and the Unexpected Solutions" by Johann Hari
   • Hari argues that depression is not just a chemical imbalance in the brain but also linked to a range of social and environmental factors. His book looks at issues like social isolation, disconnection from meaningful work, and childhood trauma. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on how we treat and understand depression.
3. "The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk
   • While focused on trauma rather than depression per se, this groundbreaking book explores how trauma affects the brain and body, contributing to mental health conditions such as depression. Van der Kolk, a leading trauma researcher, discusses how trauma treatment can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
4. "Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy" by David D. Burns
   • A classic in the self-help genre, Burns' book introduces cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques aimed at identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to depression. It's an accessible guide for those looking to manage depression on their own.
5. "Reasons to Stay Alive" by Matt Haig
   • Haig's memoir blends his personal experience with depression and suicide with a message of hope and resilience. It's a heartfelt and honest reflection on how depression can affect everyday life, and how it's possible to find ways to live with it and even thrive.
6. "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl
   • While not specifically about depression, Frankl's classic work on the importance of finding meaning in life is deeply influential in understanding the human condition, especially in the face of suffering. His experiences in Nazi concentration camps led him to develop logotherapy, a form of existential psychotherapy that focuses on finding meaning even in the darkest of circumstances.
7. "The Dark Side of the Light Chasers" by Debbie Ford
   • This book focuses on self-acceptance and understanding the "dark" parts of ourselves, such as feelings of sadness or anger. It’s often used as a tool for personal growth and healing, which can help those struggling with depression address negative emotions and self-destructive behaviors.
8. "The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living" by Russ Harris
   • This book uses principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help people embrace their feelings of depression or anxiety without getting trapped by them. It’s a practical guide for living a richer, more fulfilling life despite mental health struggles.
9. "Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown
   • While not solely focused on depression, Brown’s exploration of vulnerability and shame has had a significant impact on mental health. She discusses how embracing vulnerability and self-compassion can lead to greater emotional resilience, which can be helpful for those dealing with depression.
10. "The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom" by Jonathan Haidt
    • Haidt examines ancient ideas about happiness and well-being from a modern psychological perspective. While it's not a direct treatment for depression, it offers insights into what factors contribute to mental health, and how to apply them to achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.
11. An Unquiet Mind, a memoir by Kay Redfield Jamison
    • Kay Redfield Jamison is a renowned psychologist and expert on bipolar disorder. The book offers a deeply personal account of Jamison’s own struggles with the illness, blending her experiences as both a patient and a professional. It explores the impact of bipolar disorder on her life, relationships, and career, while also delving into the complexities of living with mental illness. Through her candid and eloquent narrative, Jamison provides a powerful exploration of the challenges of mental health, the search for treatment, and the human spirit’s resilience.

» How to Get Started Today

Getting started is easy! If you are ready to take the next step, here's how:

1. Contact Us: Call us at (516) 376-0950 to schedule your appointment.
2. Choose Your Session Type: Decide whether you want an in-person or virtual session.
3. Insurance: Call your insurance company, ask about in network/out of network benefits, deductibles, copayments and if you need prior authorization for treatment.
4. Prepare for Your Session: Think about what you want to discuss during your first meeting, many people make a list of symptoms and concerns..

Call us today at (516) 376–0950 and take the first step toward a brighter future!