When most people think of depressive disorders and depression, they may picture younger people like teens and young adults. However, depression can develop in people of any age, including adults. If you feel like you or a loved one is dealing with depression, it can be helpful to understand more about depression in adults. Specifically, what to look for in depressive disorders as far as symptoms and the risks associated with depression. This way, you can have a better understanding of whether or not you or your loved one should get help and discover the best ways to do so.

Some of the Defining and Common Symptoms of Depressive Disorders in Adults

Adults may experience depressive disorders differently than younger people. So, it can be helpful to understand the common symptoms of depressive disorders in adults if you think that you or a loved one may be living with depression. Symptoms of depression can be categorized into three areas: social, physical, and emotional.

Some of the common social signs and symptoms of depressive disorders in adults may include:

• pulling away from friends and family
• avoiding social gatherings and previously enjoyed activities/hobbies
• relationship issues
• problems with finances and career paths

Some of the common physical signs and symptoms of depressive disorders in adults may include:

• fluctuations in weight
• stomach pain
• muscle weakness
• fatigue
• loss of energy
• insomnia
• reduced sex drive
• self-harm

Some of the common emotional signs and symptoms of depressive disorders in adults may include:

• feelings of hopelessness and despair
• reduced self-confidence
• apathy for everything
• loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• trouble making decisions
• anxiety and guilt
• suicidal thoughts and ideation

Who’s at Risk as an Adult for Developing Adult Depression?

Some adults are at an increased risk of developing depressive disorders. There is no one cause for depression, but understanding the things that put a person at risk for depression can help to narrow down who may be more likely to experience depression as an adult and the treatments that may be helpful for these individuals.

Some things that can place adults at a higher risk for developing depression may include:

• genetics and family history (those who have parents/close family who are diagnosed with depression have an increased risk of developing depression themselves)
• experiencing severe trauma (the sudden loss of a loved one, childhood neglect, and abuse can put an adult at a higher risk of depression)
• relationship issues
• financial struggles

A New Way to Approach Depression in Adults Who Struggle – Ketamine Infusion Therapy

If you’re an adult who identifies with some of the risks, signs, and symptoms of depression in your life, it may be time to get help. Even if you’ve tried treatments for depression before without much relief, there are new types of treatments available that can help. For example, ketamine infusion therapy is a revolutionary tool in the treatment of depression. This type of treatment is very successful in helping adults who are struggling with the impacts of depression find lasting and effective depression symptom relief starting with just the first, non-invasive session.

Find out more about outpatient ketamine infusion therapy sessions for depression available from Delray Brain Science on our website today.