Depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is one of the most common mental health issues in the world. Millions of people struggle with it every day. However, there are a lot of misconceptions about depression. At South Shore Recovery Center, we believe that education is the first step in being able to identify care needs in yourself and your loved ones. We provide comprehensive, personalized treatment for depression and other mental health disorders.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is commonly called depression. It is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Although it’s normal to feel down from time to time, or even for extended periods if there is a cause, MDD goes beyond that. People with MDD feel extreme negative emotions for months or years on end, and these feelings affect their ability to socialize, work, and function daily.
Symptoms of MDD may vary from person to person, but common signs include:
Risk factors are circumstances that may increase a person’s risk of developing a certain condition. It’s important to note that you don’t have to have any of these risk factors to develop MDD. At the same time, having one or many risk factors does not mean that you will develop MDD; it just means that your chances are increased.
Genetics plays a significant role in many cases of MDD. That means that if someone in your family has MDD, you are more likely to have it or develop it. The exact biological cause is unknown, but studies have found a strong genetic correlation.
In some cases, MDD is caused by an abnormality in brain chemistry. For most people, the human brain regularly releases “feel-good chemicals,” such as serotonin. Serotonin is a mood booster, so when it’s released, you’ll generally feel happier. This chemical also aids in bodily functions like digestion and blood clotting. In some people with MDD, the brain is not producing or releasing serotonin correctly. There may be a lack of serotonin production, or there may be an issue with the receptors that serotonin usually bonds to. These problems with brain function can be a biological cause of MDD.
Other significant risk factors for MDD are environmental and psychological circumstances. These might include stress, trauma, and other co-occurring mental health disorders. Stress from life events can affect your mind, body, and mood. Prolonged stress can lead to depression symptoms. Trauma from the past is similar, with the memories of the traumatic event causing stress and anxiety. Having other mental health disorders, such as an anxiety disorder, PTSD, or a personality disorder, can also cause undue stress that may lead to depression.
South Shore Recovery Center offers an individualized approach that includes thorough assessments, such as biopsychosocial evaluations, to create customized care plans for each patient with MDD. We employ evidence-based therapies for depression in treatment, such as:
Our psychiatric team at South Shore Recovery Center also utilizes medication management when needed. This treatment utilizes clinically approved medications such as SSRIs to treat symptoms of depression.
We also welcome patients with co-occurring disorders, such as substance use disorder (SUD) or another mental health condition. Though co-morbid cases are often more complex, our compassionate and knowledgeable staff are fully trained to address the interconnected nature of co-occurring disorders.
Our day treatment program provides approximately 30 hours of clinical services per week with psychiatric and medical oversight. This is our most intensive level of care.
The half-day treatment program offers 10-15 hours of clinical services per week, focusing on therapy and support. This is ideal for patients in need of mental health support but not super intensive supervision.
Our outpatient services are ideal for those transitioning out of intensive programs. They offer continued support when you need it.
Continued support and aftercare planning is crucial for maintaining long-term recovery following treatment. It helps individuals build a solid support network by connecting them with therapists for continued mental health care, prescribers for medication management, and support groups like 12-Step programs to reinforce sobriety. Family therapy encourages healing within the household, promoting better communication and understanding. Engaging with community support resources fosters a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation. South Shore Recovery Center offers each patient a well-structured aftercare plan that ensures they have the tools and relationships necessary to navigate challenges, prevent relapse, and encourage a sustained, healthy lifestyle.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression and need professional support, South Shore Recovery Center is here for you. Give us a call at (774) 515-2878 to learn more about our treatment options.
DISCLAIMER: South Shore Recovery Center is licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services to provide Outpatient Counseling and Day Treatment Services.
