Depression Specialist

What is depression?

Depression is a severe mental condition that affects how you feel, think, and act. As a result, you may experience persistent sadness, feelings of guilt, and other emotional and physical symptoms severe enough to affect your life.

While the cause of depression isn’t well understood, you may be at increased risk because of:

• Brain chemistry
• Hormones
• Family history
• Traumatic events

You may also be more likely to develop depression if you have anxiety or other mental health conditions.

When should I seek treatment for depression?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation if you have symptoms of depression that you can’t manage on your own or symptoms that reduce your quality of life.

In addition to persistent sadness and guilt, depression can cause:

• Emptiness
• Hopelessness
• Worthlessness
• Restlessness
• Loss of interest in activities
• Sleep disturbances
• Chronic fatigue
• Reduced appetite
• Difficulties concentrating

In some people, depression can cause recurrent thoughts of self-harm or suicide, as well as physical body pain and headaches.

The Waterside Psychiatry Mental Health team offers depression evaluations through an online telehealth platform. You can meet with the team from the comfort of your home or wherever you are. Based on the results of the evaluation, they can discuss your treatment options for depression.

How is depression treated?

Depression is a treatable condition, and with the right care plan, you can learn how to manage your symptoms in the long term.

The Waterside Psychiatry team tailors a treatment plan to minimize your depression symptoms and help you enjoy a high quality and productive life. You may benefit from:

• Lifestyle changes
• Dietary improvements
• Mindfulness techniques
• Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Some people may also need antidepressant medications that alter brain chemistry to achieve ongoing symptom relief. These medications can also help control any issues you have with anxiety, a disorder that can occur alongside depression.

The medical team monitors your progress with treatment through routine appointments through the telehealth platform. They can adjust your medications when necessary and offer additional resources that help you thrive mentally and emotionally.