Depression

Depression can significantly impact your quality of life, relationships, career, and overall well-being. At Hope & Heart Psychiatry, our goal is to identify the underlying cause of your depression and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

If depression is overwhelming your life, reach out to Hope & Heart Psychiatry or schedule a telehealth appointment online today!

What is depression?
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, irritability, hopelessness, self-doubt, loss of pleasure, and a distorted negative view of oneself.

It can be triggered by life circumstances such as the loss of a loved one, changes in physical health due to injury or illness, or other stressors that disrupt brain chemistry. Additional risk factors include a history of violence, neglect, poverty, and family medical history.

Depressive symptoms are also commonly linked to medical conditions such as endocrine disorders, hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome, and heart conditions.

What are the common symptoms of depression?
Depression causes a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including:

• Feeling blue or down
• An inability to experience pleasure
• Hopelessness
• Helplessness
• Guilt
• Self-loathing
• A feeling of emptiness or that life has no meaning
• Changes in appetite
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Extreme fatigue
• Low libido
• Poor concentration
• Indecisive
• Social withdrawal
• Losing interest in usual activities
• Suicidal thoughts or preoccupation with death

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help by going to the nearest emergency room or calling 911.

How is depression treated?
Collecting an in-depth medical history and assessing severity and frequency of symptoms by utilizing the PHQ-9 Scale is first established prior to starting treatment for depression. 

While your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, combining medication with psychotherapy often enhances the effectiveness of overcoming depression and improving your quality of life. Additionally, incorporating nutrient-rich foods, regular exercise, adequate sunlight, and good sleep hygiene can further help reduce depressive symptoms.