Depression Treatment in Frisco, TX

Depression is a common disorder that can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life. It can feel like all the colors in nature have been muted, children laughing and birds singing fall on deaf ears. You can see joy around you but not FEEL joy in you. Increased irritability and wanting to be alone are almost always present. These symptoms affect all areas of life and frequently impact your personal and professional relationships. Depression is very, very common. It can be related to life circumstances, genetics, hormonal changes, and/or environment, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Many research-supported treatment options have been proven to be effective in treating depression.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression in the Frisco area, contact PS Counseling Frisco today to schedule a consultation. Call us at 469-747-1826 to get started, or request an appointment through our secure online contact form.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Many people describe depression as a lingering feeling of sadness, but depression can include many specific symptoms, such as:

• Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
• Tearfulness
• Feeling hopeless
• Frequent thoughts of death or suicide, no point in living
• Intense fatigue
• Difficulty in remembering things or concentrating
• Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping
• Fixating on life problems or past failures
• Increased irritability
• Feelings of guilt/shame
• Having a short fuse
• Slowed speech and/or body movements
• Changes in appetite
• Anxiety
• Physical discomforts like neck pain or recurring headaches

Not every individual will experience symptoms of depression in the same way. These unique variances may include several of the symptoms listed above, which may range in severity from one person to another. To be officially diagnosed with depression, an individual must experience symptoms consecutively for at least two weeks.

Five Different Types of Depression

There are five primary forms of depression.

1. Postpartum Depression

Many women experience mild depressive symptoms in the first few weeks after delivering a child, but postpartum depression is a more serious form of this common “baby blues.” Women with postpartum depression may experience symptoms of extreme sadness, fatigue, and anxiety while pregnant or soon after giving birth.

2. Persistent Depressive Disorder

Also known as dysthymia, persistent depressive disorder is a mood disorder that lasts for two years or more. During this length of time, individuals with persistent depressive disorder are likely to experience varying intensities in their symptoms, leading them to battle severe depression at some moments, and mild symptoms at others.

3. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

This particular subtype of depression causes depressive symptoms to frequently occur during winter months when less sunlight is available during the day. Symptoms typically subside or lessen as the months progress into spring and summer seasons, but are likely to return once winter approaches.

4. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMDD is a severe and often debilitating extension of premenstrual syndrome that includes both physical and emotional symptoms. Symptoms usually begin shortly after ovulation and end once your period starts. It is common to have extreme mood changes, including sadness, irritability, and anger. Struggling with strong emotions for 12-16 days every month can be difficult and can impact both your personal and professional life. 

5. Bipolar Disorder

Depression associated with Bipolar Disorder is a mental health disorder that does not yet have a “cure”, however, it can be managed. A person with Bipolar Disorder requires medication and psychiatric management as well as ongoing mental health counseling to manage their mood swings of depression and mania (an unhealthy level of elevated mood). 

Causes and Risk Factors

Most often, depression is first diagnosed in early adulthood, although teens are increasingly struggling as well. Many things may influence the development of depression, such as: 

• Family history of depression
• Trauma
• Loss
• Side effects of a medication
• Life changes/circumstances
• Related medical problems or serious illness
• Hormonal changes especially related to perimenopause 

Treating Depression with a Counselor

Depression treatment is a good fit for online counseling if that is your preference. In-person counseling is always an option with PS Counseling Frisco as well. Telehealth has become very common and acceptable thanks to COVID-19 and it provides patients with an increased level of ease and convenience as they work with a specialist to address any ongoing concerns about their mental health.

Individuals seeking medical assistance for their depression or other mental health concerns may schedule an online session with PS Counseling Frisco today by submitting a request form available on our website. Renee Cagle, LPC, NCC offers her expertise to individuals throughout Texas, and we are currently accepting new patients!