By We Level Up WA | Author Giselle Leung, PharmD, BCGP | Editorial Policy | Research Policy
Depression is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. At We Level Up WA, we understand that depression can be overwhelming and isolating. Our Spokane facility is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for those struggling with depression and related mental health challenges.
Depression doesn’t discriminate; it affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. You may be wondering whether what you’re experiencing is depression or just a temporary mood. This guide will help you understand what depression feels like, its impact, and how We Level Up WA can support your journey toward healing.
Understanding Depression: What It Feels Like
Depression manifests differently for everyone, but there are common signs and symptoms that many people share. Understanding these symptoms can help you recognize depression in yourself or loved ones.
Emotional Symptoms
Depression often feels like a heavy, persistent sadness that doesn’t lift with time or positive events. For many, it’s like wearing a heavy coat you can’t take off.
This emotional weight is often accompanied by the following:
- Persistent feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Irritability or restlessness, even over small matters
- Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, or excessive guilt
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed (anhedonia)
Perhaps most telling is the loss of joy or pleasure in activities that used to bring happiness. Hobbies, social gatherings, or even favorite foods might seem pointless or unenjoyable.
Physical Symptoms
Depression manifests physically, too. Research shows that depression and physical pain share the same neural pathways, which explains why physical symptoms are commonly exhibited.
- Persistent fatigue and decreased energy (even small tasks feel exhausting)
- Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or sleeping too much)
- Appetite changes leading to weight loss or gain
- Slowed movements or speech that others might notice
- Unexplained aches, pains, headaches, or digestive problems
These physical symptoms often don’t respond to typical treatments, which can be a clue that depression might be the underlying cause.
Cognitive and Behavioral Signs
Depression significantly impacts how you think and behave, as shown by the following signs:
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions
- Persistent negative thoughts or self-criticism
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Withdrawal from friends, family, and social activities
- Neglecting responsibilities or personal hygiene
- Decreased productivity at work or school
Depression varies in intensity from mild to severe, and symptoms may fluctuate over time. Some people experience depression as a constant presence, while others have periods of relief interspersed with more severe episodes.
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The Impact of Depression on Daily Life
Depression doesn’t just affect your mood; it infiltrates every aspect of your life. The ripple effects can be far-reaching and profound.
In professional settings, depression often manifests as decreased productivity, difficulty meeting deadlines, or trouble concentrating during meetings. Many people report calling in sick more frequently or feeling overwhelmed by tasks they once handled with ease.
Relationships suffer too. Depression can make it difficult to connect emotionally with others, leading to misunderstandings and conflict. You might find yourself withdrawing from loved ones or lacking the energy to maintain friendships. Partners and family members may feel helpless or frustrated, not understanding that your withdrawal isn’t personal; it’s a symptom of your condition.
Self-care routines often deteriorate. Simple tasks like showering, preparing meals, or keeping up with household chores can feel insurmountable. This neglect creates a cycle in which your environment begins to reflect and reinforce your internal state.
Left untreated, depression increases the risk of developing other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and substance use disorders. About one-third of adults with depression also struggle with substance abuse, a dual diagnosis that We Level Up WA specializes in treating.
Depression is also one of the primary risk factors for suicide, which claims more than 40,000 American lives annually. In 2022, suicide accounted for 49,476 deaths in the United States. This underscores why seeking treatment isn’t just important. It can be lifesaving.
Causes and Risk Factors of Depression
Depression rarely has a single cause. Instead, it typically results from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Biological Causes
Your biology plays a significant role in depression vulnerability:
- Genetics: Depression can run in families. If you have a first-degree relative with depression, your risk increases by 2 to 3 times. Research suggests that multiple genes, each with minor effects, combine to increase susceptibility.
- Brain Chemistry: Neurotransmitters, chemical messengers in your brain, help regulate mood. Imbalances in serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine are linked to depression. This is why many antidepressant medications target these chemical systems.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones can trigger or worsen depression. This explains why depression risk increases during puberty, after childbirth, and during perimenopause.
- Physical Health Conditions: Chronic illness, pain, or certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders, cancer, or heart disease can contribute to depression.
Environmental Triggers
Your experiences and environment significantly impact depression risk:
- Trauma or Abuse: Experiencing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, especially in childhood, increases vulnerability to depression later in life.
- Major Life Changes: Events like divorce, job loss, retirement, or moving can trigger depression, even when these changes aren’t necessarily negative.
- Chronic Stress: Ongoing stressors, such as financial problems, relationship difficulties, or caregiving responsibilities, can weaken resilience over time.
- Grief and Loss: While grief is a natural response to loss, it can sometimes develop into depression, especially when the loss is traumatic or when multiple losses occur close together.
Psychological Contributors
Your thought patterns and personality traits can influence depression risk:
- Negative Thinking Patterns: Tendencies toward pessimism, self-criticism, or rumination can increase vulnerability.
- Low Self-Esteem: Persistent negative beliefs about yourself can contribute to and maintain depression.
- Personality Traits: Certain traits like neuroticism (tendency toward negative emotions) or perfectionism can increase risk.
In Washington state, several environmental factors may contribute to higher depression rates, including the region’s limited sunlight during winter months contributing to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), economic stressors in certain communities, and higher rates of substance use in some areas.
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Depression Statistics
One of the most prevalent mental diseases in the US is major depression. Some people with serious depression may experience substantial impairments that impede or restrict their capacity to engage in important life activities.
21 million
An estimated 21.0 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. This number represented 8.4% of all U.S. adults.
Source: National Institute on Mental Health
10.5%
The prevalence of major depressive episodes was higher among adult females (10.5%) than males (6.2%).
Source: National Institute on Mental Health
17.0%
The prevalence of adults with a major depressive episode was highest among individuals aged 18-25 (17.0%).
Source: National Institute of Mental Health
Depression Treatment Options at We Level Up WA
At We Level Up WA, we believe in comprehensive, individualized treatment approaches that address the whole person, not just their symptoms. Our Spokane facility offers evidence-based therapies delivered by compassionate professionals specializing in mental health care.
Therapeutic Services
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) forms the foundation of depression treatment. Our therapeutic approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This gold-standard treatment helps you identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to depression. CBT teaches practical strategies to challenge distorted thinking and develop healthier behavioral responses. Research shows that CBT is as effective as medication for many forms of depression.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Particularly helpful for those struggling with intense emotions or suicidal thoughts, DBT combines cognitive techniques with mindfulness practices. It teaches skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
- Group Therapy: Sharing experiences with others facing similar challenges can reduce isolation and provide a valuable perspective. Our facilitated groups offer support and skill-building in a safe, structured environment.
- Trauma-Focused Therapies: For depression stemming from traumatic experiences, we offer specialized approaches like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that help process and integrate difficult memories.
Medication Management
For many people, medication is vital in the treatment of depression:
- Antidepressants: These medications help correct chemical imbalances in the brain. Several types exist, including:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Examples are Prozac or Lexapro.
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): Examples are Cymbalta or Effexor.
Finding the most effective antidepressant often requires patience, as it may take 4 to 6 weeks to experience full benefits.
Our board-certified psychiatrists carefully evaluate each patient, considering medical history, symptom profile, and potential drug interactions before recommending medication. We provide ongoing monitoring to assess effectiveness and manage any side effects.
Comprehensive Care
Beyond traditional therapies, we offer holistic treatment to support overall well-being:
- Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation help manage stress and increase present-moment awareness.
- Lifestyle Coaching: Our team will educate you about sleep hygiene, nutrition, exercise, and daily routines that support mental health recovery.
- Family Therapy: Because depression affects the entire family system, we offer sessions that improve communication, reduce conflict, and help loved ones understand how to provide support.
Program Options
We Level Up WA offers a residential inpatient treatment program that provides 24/7 support in a structured, healing environment. This level of care is ideal for individuals experiencing severe depression, suicidal thoughts, or co-occurring disorders that require intensive intervention.
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Breaking the Stigma: Why Seeking Help Matters
Despite significant advances in understanding mental health, stigma remains a major barrier to treatment. Many people suffering from depression hesitate to seek help due to misconceptions and social attitudes.
Depression is a medical condition. It’s not a character flaw, personal weakness, or something you can simply “snap out of.” Just as you wouldn’t expect someone with diabetes to recover through willpower alone, depression requires proper treatment and support.
Stigma operates on multiple levels. Self-stigma involves internalizing negative beliefs about mental illness, leading to shame and reluctance to acknowledge symptoms. Social stigma manifests as discrimination, stereotyping, or judgment from others. Both forms can prevent people from seeking the help they need.
By taking that first step, you’re helping yourself and inspiring others to seek the care they deserve.
Self-Care and Support Systems for Managing Depression
While professional treatment forms the cornerstone of depression recovery, self-care practices and support systems play crucial complementary roles.
Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can significantly impact your mental health:
- Physical Activity: Even modest exercise, like a 30-minute walk, can boost mood-enhancing chemicals in your brain. Research shows that regular physical activity can be as effective as medication for mild to moderate depression.
- Nutrition: What you eat affects how you feel. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and antioxidants supports brain health. Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods can help stabilize mood.
- Sleep Hygiene: Depression often disrupts sleep, which then worsens depression. Establishing consistent sleep and wake times, creating a restful environment, and limiting screen time before bed can improve sleep quality.
- Stress Management: Practices like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or gentle yoga can activate your body’s relaxation response, countering the stress that often accompanies depression.
- Meaningful Activities: Even when motivation is low, engaging in activities that align with your values can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Human connection is a powerful antidote to depression:
- Trusted Relationships: Identify friends or family members who can provide understanding without judgment. Be specific about what kind of support helps you most; whether it involves practical assistance, emotional validation, or simply companionship.
- Support Groups: Connecting with others who understand depression firsthand can reduce isolation and provide hope. Both in-person and online groups offer a valuable community.
- Community Involvement: Volunteering or participating in community activities can provide purpose and connection, even in small doses.
In the Spokane area, numerous community resources complement the care provided at We Level Up WA. Local support groups, community centers, and outd
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FREE 24/7 Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Services HotlineWhy Choose We Level Up WA for Depression Treatment?
Choosing the right treatment provider is a crucial decision. At We Level Up WA, several factors distinguish our approach to depression care:
Specialized Expertise: Our clinical team includes board-certified psychiatrists, licensed therapists, and mental health professionals with specific training in depression and co-occurring disorders. This expertise ensures you receive the most current, evidence-based treatments available.
Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with an evaluation of your medical history, symptom patterns, previous treatments, and personal goals. This detailed understanding allows us to develop a truly personalized treatment plan.
Healing Environment: Our Spokane facility is designed to promote comfort and recovery. From private rooms to therapeutic spaces, our center is designed to support the healing process.
Integrated Approach: We address all aspects of well-being: mental, physical, and social, recognizing that these dimensions are interconnected. This holistic perspective leads to more complete and lasting recovery.
Continuum of Care: From intensive inpatient treatment to ongoing outpatient support, we provide seamless transitions between levels of care as your needs change throughout the recovery process.
Family Involvement: We recognize that depression affects the entire family system. With your permission, we involve loved ones in education and therapy, equipping them to provide support.
Aftercare Planning: Recovery continues beyond formal treatment. We develop comprehensive aftercare plans that include ongoing therapy, community resources, relapse prevention strategies, and wellness practices.
Taking the First Step
Beginning the journey toward recovery takes courage, and you don’t have to take that step alone. Our compassionate admissions team is ready to guide you through the process with respect and confidentiality.
The first step is simple: reach out. Call our helpline at 509-348-4077 to learn more.
Coping with Depression – Informative Video
Coping with depression can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to help manage your symptoms. Exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep can help improve your mood. Talking to a therapist can also be beneficial as they can provide additional resources and help you process your thoughts and feelings. Lastly, knowing what triggers your depressive episodes can help you better prepare for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Spokane, Washington, can you find depression treatment?
In Spokane, several trusted treatment centers and professionals specializing in depression care are available. At We Level Up Washington, we offer a holistic approach to mental health treatment, addressing depression through evidence-based therapies and inpatient care. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, seeking professional help is the first step toward recovery.
Where in Seattle, Washington, can you find depression treatment?
Seattle offers several reputable treatment centers for depression, each providing a range of services tailored to individual needs. At We Level Up Washington in Spokane, we have a holistic and supportive approach to mental health treatment, including inpatient care for depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, reach out to a healthcare provider to determine the treatment for your specific needs.
Where in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, can you find depression treatment?
Coeur d’Alene offers several reputable centers and professionals who specialize in depression treatment. At We Level Up Washington in Spokane, we have a holistic and supportive approach to mental health treatment, including inpatient care for depression. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, reaching out to a healthcare provider is an essential first step in finding the support.
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