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Area of Focus

Depression

Compass Health Center’s treatment teams provide patient-centered, high-level behavioral health care and crisis support for children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with Depression. The priority of Compass's comprehensive, individualized treatment plans is to help patients build the necessary skills needed to succeed in their daily lives as quickly as possible.

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What Is Depression?<span id= - Compass Health Center ">

What Is Depression?

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 300 million people globally have Depression. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest in day-to-day activities. Also referred to as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Clinical Depression, this disorder affects how individuals feel and behave—both mentally and physically. 

Sadness is considered a normal reaction to loss or certain life challenges. However, when sadness turns into intense symptoms that disrupt daily functioning, it could be an indication of Clinical Depression. 

MDD is one of the most common mental health diagnoses across age groups. It is estimated that 16.2 million adults in the United States roughly 6.7%have at least one Major Depressive Episode (MDE) per year. Depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States for people ages 15 to 44, and is more prevalent in women than in men. Depression symptoms vary, which is why treatment at Compass Health Center is individualized to meet the specific needs of each patient. 

The most common and diagnosed types of Depression include:

  • Major Depressive Disorder 
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Seasonal Depression
  • Postpartum Depression
  • Psychotic Depression

Common Depression Symptoms - Compass Health Center

Common Depression Symptoms

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an individual may be experiencing MDD when they have five or more of the following Depression symptoms for at least two weeks:

  • A feeling of overwhelming sadness upon waking, which continues throughout the day
  • A feeling of tiredness or lack of energy
  • Daily feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • A constant feeling of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions
  • Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping
  • Lack of interest or pleasure in many activities
  • Recurring thoughts of suicide or death
  • Drastic weight gain or weight loss due to unhealthy eating patterns
  • Restless feelings
  • Feeling irritable or “cranky” 
  • Loss of an overall pleasure in living life
  • Aches, pains, cramps, headaches, or digestive problems 
  • Anxious and “empty” feelings
  • Fixation on the past, on past mistakes, or on things that have “gone wrong”

While the occurrence of these symptoms is common for those with MDD, not everyone will experience symptoms the same way. The effects of Depression can vary from person to person, with intensity ranging from mild to debilitating. It is encouraged to seek medical advice to gain a proper diagnosis.

When to Seek Treatment for Depression - Compass Health Center

When to Seek Treatment for Depression

While sadness is a normal feeling that every person feels at some point in their lives, if symptoms reach a point when they interfere with daily functioning or present consistently for two weeks or more it is important to seek professional, evidence-based treatment.

Depression in Children and Teens

Depression and Anxiety are among the most common mental health concerns in children and adolescents. Symptoms can affect the way they learn, behave, or handle emotions, potentially causing problems in their daily life. According to the CDC, approximately 1.9 million children ages 6 to 12 in the United States have diagnosed Depression. Research shows that around 25% of teens experience Depression. While Depression is one of the leading mental health diagnoses among teens, most cases are left undetected and untreated; 60% of children and adolescents with Depression are not getting any kind of professional treatment.

Depression in Young Adults and Adults

According to the CDC, Depression is one of the leading causes of disability among adults in the United States. Nearly 50% of all adults diagnosed with Depression are also found to have a co-occurring Anxiety Disorder.

Up to 15% of adults and young adults suffer from Depression symptoms at any given time, and only 30% of young adults with depression are being treated. Individuals aged 18 to 29 experience symptoms of Depression the most (21%), followed by adults aged 45 to 64 years old.

AREAS OF FOCUS

The clinical definition for depression is the presence of 5 or more depressive symptoms present for at least a two week period of time causing distress or difficulty functioning. The list of symptoms possible for depression include: depressed mood, loss of pleasure in activities, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, changes in appetite and weight, changes in activity levels, fatigue and loss of energy, worthlessness/guilt and suicidal thoughts. It is important to note that there is a difference between the formal clinical definition of depression and personal experiences. Someone can feel depressed but not meet the formal clinical definition for Major Depressive Disorder.

A patient-centered approach means the individual seeking care is at the center of their treatment at Compass Health Center. The clinical team assigned to your care works together to include a personalized treatment plan that the patient completes with their care team, including goals related to group work, medication management, individual therapy, effective coping skill integration and practice, and discharge planning. Each patient's unique needs, strengths, and personal goals drives their course of treatment.

Compass Health Center utilizes a variety of clinical interventions in the treatment of depression. including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These clinical models are evidence based and have been shown in various research studies to be effective in treating depression.

Compass teaches many skills in program from our clinical models, which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These models include skills that help break depressive patterns of thinking, help increase behaviors that combat depression and help understand the nature of intense feelings such as sadness and hopelessness. With a variety of skills taught over program, patients will learn which works best for them through work with their treatment team.

At Compass Health Center, we want to make sure that a patient can get the healthcare they need, regardless of their insurance coverage. We accept most commercial insurance plans, and we offer flexible payment plans to help make our services more affordable. Our billing team works with the patient/family to establish any plans needed.

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testimonials

Our Success Stories

Double Quotes - Compass Health Center

Compass saved my life! I came into Compass with suicidal ideations and no hope. After a couple of weeks of being in the program, I did not have those thoughts anymore. Compass helped me change my mindset, from a negative pattern of thoughts to a more positive and optimistic frame of mind.

Patient
Double Quotes - Compass Health Center

My child is leaving Compass more equipped to handle her emotions, her anxiety, her depression, and the things that all trigger these. She is willing to use the skills, which is a huge change, and this is all due to how well Compass worked for her.

Parent of Child Patient
Double Quotes - Compass Health Center

I liked how in Compass, everyone was respectful of my opinions, pronouns, and preferred name. There was no judging, and you can open up to people. I also like how I can relate to other kids. I also really appreciate learning new skills.

Patient
Double Quotes - Compass Health Center

Compass is a godsend. An amazing program for children who are struggling and families who are seeking help and guidance. I could not imagine that she would be so much better in less than 2 months. I wish we could have found Compass without going to the ER. Thanks for all you do!

Parent of Child Patient
Double Quotes - Compass Health Center

The evening IOP program challenged me in a supportive and respectful way to help change my way of thinking. Compass provided me with the tools to help deal with life situations in a healthy way.

Adult Patient
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In-Person and Virtual Mental Health Services for Illinois & Maryland Residents