When you feel down in the dumps, the chances are that you do not feel like doing much of anything. You may isolate yourself at home, lie on the couch in your pajamas, turn your phone off, and binge-watch TV shows. Although getting out and socializing may feel like the last thing you want to do, it may be the most beneficial for taking the edge off your depression. Isolation only amplifies your low feelings, so reaching out to a professional depression treatment program can help you see brighter days once again.

At Bayview Recovery, we understand how challenging it can be to pull yourself out of isolation when you are depressed. Our depression treatment program can help you manage your symptoms with therapy, medication, and healthy lifestyle habits. Call us today at 855.478.3650 to learn more about how we can help you overcome isolation and depression.

What Are the Signs of Depression?

Everyone experiences occasional sadness, but when the occasional blue day turns into weeks of low mood, you may be suffering from depression. Getting treatment for depression as early as possible can help prevent this mental health condition from robbing you of your happiness. 

Are you struggling with feelings of sadness or hopelessness? Consider the following signs of depression to determine if you may need treatment:

• Persistent sadness that lasts more than two weeks
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Inability to focus
• Feeling hopeless about your future
• Irritability and getting upset easily over small things
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping

If you notice some of the above signs of depression, consider speaking to a mental health practitioner. They can help you find the right therapy and medication to address symptoms of depression.

Recognizing the Signs of Isolation

Some people are naturally introverted and may prefer spending more time alone as opposed to going out and socializing. This is not necessarily a bad thing. Isolation is different from a preference for solitude. Many people find that solitude helps them rest, rejuvenate, and recharge, especially after stressful days or time spent with others. 

On the other hand, isolation has a more negative connotation because it can harm your mental health. How can you tell if you are isolating rather than simply enjoying some alone time? Be on the lookout for the following signs of isolation:

• Feeling anxious when thinking about upcoming social activities
• Avoiding activities with others you once enjoyed
• Frequently canceling plans to stay home alone
• Going for days on end without interacting with other people

Temporary isolation may be necessary, such as when you have been exposed to or show symptoms of an illness. Making efforts to stay connected to others virtually can help alleviate any adverse effects of isolation.

Isolation and Depression: A Troublesome Duo

What happens when you combine depression and isolation? You may have already noticed that some of the symptoms overlap. As you can imagine, a combination of the two will only exacerbate your symptoms.

Depression and isolation can lead to:

• More severe depression symptoms
• Increased risk for substance abuse
• A more sensitive stress response
• Overeating and food cravings
• Lethargy
• Lack of motivation to exercise

The reasons for isolation can also impact the effects of isolation and depression. If a person chooses to isolate themselves because of their depression, they know they have the option of getting treatment. But when isolation is imposed on them by a stay-at-home order or being quarantined for illness, a person may experience more distress. This may be especially true when there is no predetermined length of time for the isolation, such as during the early days of the pandemic.

See Signs of Depression and Isolation? Call Bayview Recovery 

Bayview Recovery is here to help when depression and isolation have you feeling stuck in a rut. Our comprehensive depression treatment program addresses the needs of the whole person with holistic and behavioral therapies, medication, and compassionate support. Call us at 855.478.3650 to enroll in depression treatment so you can enjoy happier days.