Depression

Depression is one of the most common and treatable mental health conditions in the United States. As of 2025, approximately 18.3% of U.S. adults currently have or are being treated for depression, representing nearly 48 million Americans (Gallup, 2025). Nearly one in three adults will experience depression at some point in their lives. Despite how common and treatable depression is, many people don’t seek help. Women are more likely to be diagnosed than men, and rates are particularly high among young adults and those facing financial hardship. Depression can develop at any age, though symptoms often emerge during adolescence or early adulthood.

When depression takes hold, it can affect nearly every aspect of daily life. It may interfere with self-care routines, make it difficult to maintain relationships, and reduce performance at work or school. Many people find that tasks that once felt manageable become overwhelming. Motivation drops, decision-making becomes harder, and the world can start to feel smaller and less engaging. When depression begins to limit what feels possible or enjoyable, professional support can help restore functioning and hope.

Understanding Depression and Mood Disorders:

Depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or loss of interest that go beyond normal mood fluctuations. Common types of depression and related mood disorders include:

• Major Depressive Disorder
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
• Bipolar Disorder
• Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Postpartum Depression

These conditions vary in their patterns and severity, but they share core features of mood disturbance that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.

How Does Depression Show Up in Daily Life?

Depression often develops gradually and can look different from person to person. Common signs include prolonged sadness or emptiness, loss of interest in activities that used to bring pleasure, and difficulty experiencing joy. Physical symptoms are common too, such as changes in sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little), appetite changes, persistent fatigue, and low energy even after rest. Many people notice problems with concentration, memory, and decision-making. Some become more irritable or withdrawn from others.

Depression can also show up as physical aches and pains, restlessness, or a sense of moving in slow motion. Feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or hopelessness are common. In severe cases, people may have thoughts of death or suicide.

When depression goes untreated, it can lead to worsening physical health, strained relationships, job loss, and increased risk of substance use. It’s also associated with higher rates of chronic health conditions. With proper treatment, approximately 80% of people with depression experience significant improvement. Getting support can make a meaningful difference in functioning and quality of life.

Treatment for Depression:

Treatment is tailored to the type and severity of symptoms. Evidence-based options include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that maintain depression, and teaches skills to change them.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and communication patterns that may contribute to depression.
• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores underlying patterns and past experiences that may be contributing to current symptoms.
• Medication: Antidepressant medications can be effective, particularly for moderate to severe depression. Our in-house psychiatrists can provide medication evaluation and management when appropriate, working in close partnership with your therapist.

Many people benefit from a combination of therapy and medication. We also offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy, depending on your needs and preferences. Treatment can help improve mood, restore energy and motivation, reduce irritability, normalize sleep and appetite, and improve concentration and memory. Most importantly, treatment helps restore hope and a sense of possibility.

Get Support at Miami Counseling & Resource Center:

Our team of psychologists, licensed counselors, family therapists, clinical social workers, and psychiatrists specializes in treating depression and related mood disorders for clients of all ages. We understand how incapacitating depression can be, particularly in relationships and daily functioning. We’ll work with you to understand what’s contributing to your symptoms, develop practical skills to manage them, and help you regain stability and engagement in your life.

If you’re looking for depression therapy in Florida, we’re here to help. Reach out to learn more or schedule an appointment.