Depression
Depression (also known as major depressive disorder, or MDD) is a treatable medical condition characterized mainly by long-lasting low or irritable mood that impacts the daily life of the person suffering from it. The onset of depression can be linked to certain major life events, like divorce or a family member’s death, but sometimes depression comes out of the blue. Depression affects both the mind and body.
Symptoms of depression
Like most mental health disorders, depression feels different for every person. With that in mind, most people with depression will have five or more of these symptoms for at least 2 weeks:
- Feelings of sadness or irritability
- Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Low energy levels and fatigue
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Trouble with concentration or memory
- Thoughts about death or suicide
- Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in appetite
- Slowed movements
Depression can also cause anxiety. Many people report feeling pain in their body, as well. Depression can occur along with other issues, such as bipolar disorder.
How is depression diagnosed?
Your provider will talk to you about your symptoms and what might be causing them. Your answers will help them make a final diagnosis and make a plan to help you feel better. At Geode Health, our first meetings with clients are always 60 minutes. This gives us the time we need to listen to you, ask questions, and better understand your unique story.
Depression is very common. 15-20% of people deal with depression at some point in their lives. While depression can have many negative effects on your life, it’s important to remember that depression can be successfully treated with psychotherapy, medications, and a number of newer interventions.
Treatments for depression
Talk Therapy
Also known as psychotherapy, talk therapy is an effective option for a number of different symptoms and conditions, including depression. Talk therapy can take many different forms, so you and your therapist can work to find the best option for your specific situation, condition, and symptoms. Talk therapy can be used in combination with medication and other forms of treatment, if needed.
Medication Management
Medications are recommended in combination with therapy for treating bipolar disorder. Our providers will make sure you get the proper treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and needs. This treatment will also include ongoing monitoring of your progress and symptoms, making sure to adjust medication doses and frequency as needed.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
A common form of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy is designed to help you identify negative or inaccurate thinking in your life so you are more capable of assessing difficult situations more clearly in the future. CBT helps individuals uncover unhelpful patterns, learn coping strategies, and alleviate symptoms of depression.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
TMS is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment that stimulates nerve cells in the brain using electromagnetic pulses. This treatment has been shown to improve symptoms of both neurological and mental health disorders, such as depression. This treatment is only offered at certain practices, so please contact our practice ahead of time to ensure we offer TMS treatment near you.
Spravato® (Esketamine)
An intranasal spray used in addition to antidepressants, Spravato® is a prescription medicine specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder (MDD) with suicidal actions or thoughts. In clinical studies of adults with TRD, those who took Spravato® and an oral antidepressant typically saw a greater reduction of depressive symptoms.
Find depression therapy and treatment at Geode Health
Across our many locations, our clinicians are ready to help you or your loved one confront, treat, and overcome depression. View all of our practices today to find a location nearest you, or book an appointment online. Together, we’ll help you take the first step towards a healthier, happier life.
If you are in crisis and in need of immediate support
Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 or text the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741741