Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder that causes feelings of intense sadness and despair. Unlike the sadness everyone feels from time-to-time, depression becomes more severe over time and interferes with your ability to function in your life. 

Depression can affect all aspects of your life, from your motivation and ability to perform at work to your connections with friends, family, and other loved ones. Fortunately, depression is treatable. 

What are the signs of depression?

Depression causes a variety of disruptive symptoms. Some of the most common signs of depression include:

• Intense and persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness
• Increased irritability and angry outbursts
• Lost interest in hobbies and other activities
• Changes in sleep habits
• Appetite changes
• Unintended weight loss or gain
• Reduced concentration and decision-making skills
• Reduced memory
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression often co-occurs with other mental and physical health issues such as anxiety, substance abuse disorder, back pain, and other chronic pain issues. 

How do you treat depression?

At A Ray of Hope: Great Lakes Institute of Neurology and Psychiatry, your doctor provides a multidisciplinary approach to treating depression. After your evaluation and diagnosis, they create a personalized treatment plan, which could include:

Antidepressant medication

Antidepressant medication can regulate your brain chemistry and relieve your depression symptoms. It can take several months to feel the full benefits of an antidepressant, so remain patient and let your doctor know about any persistent symptoms or side effects. 

Esketamine

Esketamine is a derivative of ketamine, which is becoming a common treatment for resistant depression. Esketamine is a nasal spray that you receive in-office. The team stays with you while you use the medicine, and it takes effect. 

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

TMS uses a pulsed electromagnetic field to stimulate the regions of your brain that regulate your mood and contribute to depression. This pharmaceutical-free treatment is an alternative if antidepressant medication doesn’t work for you or causes intolerable side effects. 

Counseling

Your physician partners with a group of psychologists and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) who offer expert counseling services. They customize your therapy sessions to help you explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe, compassionate environment.

Lifestyle modifications

Your doctor might recommend some lifestyle changes to improve your overall health. For example, they often recommend daily physical activity and dietary adjustments. You might also benefit from adding meditation. 

Call A Ray of Hope: Great Lakes Institute of Neurology and Psychiatry, or make an appointment online today, for expert, multidisciplinary treatment for depression.