How to Recognize the Signs of Depression

People use the word “depressed” to describe a range of sad states they may be temporarily experiencing. But clinical depression is something quite different and can take a heavy toll on a person’s quality of life.

Holistic health care practitioners, like the team of physicians at Valhalla Wellness and Medical Centers, employ a functional medicine approach to depression. We start with an assessment to learn more about you: your lifestyle, your overall diet, potential chemical disorders in your body and if you are pre-disposed to depression due to genetics. We do extensive blood testing and/or saliva testing to help pinpoint the cause of the problem. Many times, depression can also be caused by a damaged gastrointestinal tract.

Common warning signs of depression:

• Feeling persistently sad
• Loss of interest in activities
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Disturbances in sleep and appetite
• Tiredness and lack of energy
• Unable to focus/concentrate
• Unable to perform daily activities
• In severe cases, having thoughts of suicide or “not wanting to live anymore”

Signs of depression may differ at certain stages of life. In children, for instance, there may be signs of sadness, irritability, clinginess, aches and pains, refusal to go to school. Teenagers may display sadness, irritability, anger, poor performance at school, drug or alcohol use, self-harm, loss of interest in normal activities, and avoidance of social interaction. In older adults, memory difficulties or personality changes, physical aches or pains, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, social avoidance and suicidal thinking or feelings, especially in older men, are signals that the person may be in a depression.

Valhalla Wellness uses an effective functional medicine approach to treat depression. Our patients report better mood, restored interest and happiness in their lives and less anxiety. If you are ready to regain hope and feel better, contact us for a free consultation today.

By Valhalla Wellness & Medical Centers

August 18, 2021