Does Depression Ever Go Away Completely? By Amanda Young LCSW

Depression can affect people in a way that we have never seen coming. Many people do not know what

depression is and if it will ever go away. Below, I will define what depression is, risk factors and

treatment. I will also answer the question, “Does depression ever go away completely?

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common form of depression and can ebb and flow

throughout a person's lifetime. Symptoms typically associated with MDD include:

-Depressed mood or feeling sad

-Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

-Significant changes in your weight or appetite

-Sleep issues

-Feeling tired or fatigued

-Feeling worthless or guilty

-Thoughts of death or suicide

-Increased feelings of agitation

-Trouble thinking, concentrating, or making decisions

Symptoms of depression must be present for at least two weeks and interfere with your functioning. When

depression has been present for two years or more, persistent depressive disorder, formerly known as

dysthymia may be the right diagnosis.

There are risk factors that play a role in depression such as genetics, environmental factors, personality

factors and biochemistry, which puts a person at more risk to develop depression. Biochemistry is

differences in certain chemicals in the brain that may contribute to symptoms of depression and genetics

is when depression can run in families. Personality means people with low self-esteem, who are easily

overwhelmed by stress, or who are generally pessimistic appear to be more likely to experience

depression. Environmental factors are continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may

make some people more vulnerable to depression.

In addition, depression can occur as a result from everyday stressors such as work, school, family,

divorce, death and unforeseen lifestyle changes. Depression also can be a result of a health condition such

as postpartum, thyroid or brain injury.

So to answer the question above, depression does not go away but it can be reduced to where you are no

longer experiencing symptoms daily. Depression does not have a cure but it can be managed where it is no

longer affecting your ability to function. Depression can be inhibited with psychotherapy (talk therapy),

lifestyle changes such as exercise, healthy eating and at times medication. Depression can be in remission

for a few days, weeks, years or even months but learning your triggers and being open to change can help

your depression from becoming worse. Niyyah Counseling Pllc has a variety of therapists that are readily

available to speak with you. If you feel you need to talk to someone to gain more insight please feel free to

book a free 15 minute consultation with one of our staff by clicking the link

https://www.niyyahcounselingpllc.com/our-team.