What Is Moderate Depression?

If you had to guess what one of the most common mental disorders in the United States is, what would you say? Believe it or not, the answer is depression.

It's normal for everyone to experience times of sadness or being down from time to time, but depression is a serious condition that can make it difficult to maintain a routine and function in daily life.

Depression varies from person to person and is usually classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Let's learn more about moderate depression, including what it looks like and how to treat it.

What Is Moderate Depression?

Moderate depression describes a form of depression that has more significant signs and symptoms than mild depression but is not as extreme as severe depression. This level of the condition impacts one's ability to function normally and maintain a routine. It isn't as debilitating as more severe depression, but it can negatively impact a person's daily life, career, and relationships.

The Cause

Depression is more common than many people realize. In fact, it's one of the leading causes of mental health struggles all across the world. There isn't a single cause of depression, but there are several different factors that can make depression more likely:

• Chronic health challenges

• Other mental health conditions

• Family members with depression

• Financial difficulty

• Genetics

• Certain medications

The Signs and Symptoms

Moderate depression has two main symptoms: low mood and decreased interest in activities. Below are some of the other signs and symptoms that can be seen in a person who has moderate depression:

• Avoiding other people

• Changes in eating habits

• Changes in sleeping habits

• Difficulty concentrating

• Fatigue

• Feelings of guilt

• Feelings of hopelessness

• Irritability

• Lack of productivity

• Little to no motivation

• Low energy levels

• Low self-esteem

• Worry

Treatment Options

There are several methods for treating moderate depression, and lifestyle changes are some of the most accessible. The lifestyle changes listed below are powerful ways to reduce the symptoms of moderate depression.

Take Care of Yourself

During times of high stress or challenges with your mental health, it can be easy to dismiss your own wants and needs, but it's important to take care of yourself. It may require extra work, but try to ensure you're taking care of yourself by eating a well-balanced diet and prioritizing your sleep.

Move Your Body

Exercise is a great way to improve your physical health, but it can also help you feel better mentally. Finding ways to move your body has been proven to reduce stress levels and boost mood.

The best part is that moving your body can be enjoyable. It's worth it to find activities that you actually look forward to. Try finding thirty minutes each day to walk outside, ride a bike, hit up your local gym, or complete a yoga routine from the comfort of your own home.

Manage Stress

Stress can creep into your life when you're already feeling down and make matters worse. Finding ways to relax your body and mind can help make sure the symptoms you're already experiencing don't get worse over time. Implementing relaxation techniques like body scans, deep breathing, or meditation can help ease negative thoughts.

Getting Help

For any level of depression—mild, moderate, or severe—the best course of treatment is usually therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Depression doesn't often just go away on its own, even if you're making an effort to manage the symptoms. Without the proper treatment and support, depression can actually worsen over time.

Everyone's experience with depression is unique, but anyone can benefit from outside support. A mental health therapist can work with you to develop a personalized course of depression treatment. Reach out today to get started.