Depression

Depression includes a group of mental health disorders that affect approximately 18.8 million people or 9.5% of adults, in the U.S. every year. While everyone is susceptible-men and women, adults, the elderly, adolescents, and children of all ages-nearly twice as many women as men are affected by a depressive disorder each year. While no one has come up with a definite answer of what actually causes depression, and it's causes and treatment continue to be debated, scientists have learned much over the past decade about the biological and psychological factors that increase a person's chances of being affected by depression.

Some of the life stresses that are associated with depression include: Life-changing events, Long-term stress, a history of trauma or abuse, and seasonal factors. Studies have confirmed that both psychotherapy and medication are successful in treating depression. Each situation is assessed individually, and the treatment or combinations of treatments best suited are implemented. Clients who seek treatment often begin to experience relief from depression within weeks of commencing with treatment.