Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion? If so, it’s possible that you may be suffering from either major depressive disorder (MDD) or chronic depression. While these mental health conditions have some similarities, they are two distinct disorders that require different treatments.
Treatment for all types of depression can be found at Honey Lake Clinic. Our resort-style facility offers comprehensive mental health treatment through a Biblical worldview. Here, we can help you identify if you’re suffering from MDD or chronic depression and provide the care and treatment that is tailored to your needs.
Call 888.428.0562 today for more on our depression treatment program in Greenville, Florida.
What’s the Difference Between Major Depressive Disorder and Chronic Depression?
Major depressive disorder is a serious mental health condition that can cause long-lasting feelings of sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, worthlessness, and guilt. It’s diagnosed when symptoms last for more than two weeks or if they impair daily functioning. People with MDD often struggle to concentrate, maintain relationships, or find joy in activities that were once enjoyable.
Chronic depression, also known as dysthymia, is a milder but longer-lasting form of depression. It typically lasts for at least two years and can involve symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, low self-esteem, guilt, and difficulty making decisions. While chronic depression may not be as severe as MDD, it can still have a significant impact on your day-to-day life.
Signs and Symptoms
There are some overlapping signs and symptoms that can indicate either major depressive disorder or chronic depression. These include:
- Loss of interest in activities
- Changes to appetite or weight
- Insomnia or increased sleep
- Low energy levels
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Some of the ways that you might differentiate between MDD and chronic depression include the severity of symptoms, how long you’ve been feeling this way, and whether or not it’s interfering with your ability to function in day-to-day life. For example, someone suffering from MDD may have more severe feelings of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts compared to someone with chronic depression.
Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder and Chronic Depression
While MDD and chronic depression are two distinct disorders, the treatment plans for these conditions might look similar. Often, a combination of medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and support groups can be helpful in managing symptoms.
Medication can be useful for reducing the severity of symptoms. Common medications used to treat depression include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Psychotherapy can also help people with major depressive disorder and chronic depression manage their symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy are often used to help patients identify and challenge negative thoughts, practice healthy communication skills, and gain insight into their behavior.
Making some lifestyle changes can also be beneficial for managing depression symptoms. Exercise has been found to be particularly helpful in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Eating a healthy diet, reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and practicing mindfulness can also be beneficial for people with depression.
Call Honey Lake Clinic for Depression Treatment That Could Change Your Life
If you’re struggling with major depressive disorder or chronic depression, the team at Honey Lake Clinic is here to help. Our compassionate clinicians can provide comprehensive mental health treatment that’s tailored to your needs and individual goals. Through a Biblical worldview, we can help you identify your triggers for depression and develop coping skills that will help you better manage your symptoms.
Call 888.428.0562 or reach out online today to learn more about our depression treatment program in Greenville, Florida. We look forward to helping you reclaim your story.