The word “depression” has become an integral part of the American vocabulary, and it is no wonder since depression rates are on the rise. Between 2016 and 2017, depression rates increased by 18%. Recently, a study found that Grand Rapids, MI has the highest rate of depression compared to other large metro cities in the United States.
Twenty-five percent of Grand Rapids residents have been diagnosed with depression, and there are a variety of factors that could influence this statistic. It could be due to increased obesity, poverty, or stress, but it is unclear if the rise in depression rates are due to increases in diagnoses or more people feeling comfortable enough to seek help since “depression” is becoming more common in the English vernacular.
It is important to talk about mental health, but it is equally as important to get treatment for it. Counseling is an effective treatment for depression, and it can be cost-effective if utilized early on in the progression of symptoms. Many individuals can avoid taking medication long-term if they are able to get into counseling (also known as psychotherapy).
Grand Rapids residents may also be at risk for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Symptoms of SAD include depression, fatigue, and social withdrawal, and can be brought about by colder changes in the weather. Living in Michigan, many residents may feel isolated by the harsh winter. Fortunately, SAD is highly treatable just like depression–and with the help of counseling and consulting your local doctor–there are many things you can do to feel like yourself again.
At Health for Life, our counselors are trained to help you cope with the symptoms of depression and SAD. If you are experiencing the following symptoms on a daily basis, consider contacting us for support:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
- Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
- Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
- Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
- Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
- Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
- Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
- Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
Learn more by visiting our counseling page here.
Or reach out for a complimentary 15-minute consultation here.
Or call 616-200-4433. We at Health for Life would be glad to help!
References:
https://www.fox17online.com/new-study-finds-grand-rapids-has-highest-rate-of-depression
https://www.healthforlifegr.com/depression-men/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007
https://www.healthforlifegr.com/are-you-feeling-sad/
