Depression

What is Major Depressive Disorder?

Depression, often called major depressive disorder, is more than just a bout of sadness or having a rough patch; it’s a noticeable, longer-lasting dip in mood that affects how people think, feel, and go about their daily activities. Unlike typical sadness, which usually fades as life circumstances change, depression tends to stick around for weeks or months and can make the things you used to enjoy seem less interesting or overwhelming. It also comes with physical symptoms like appetite or sleep changes, trouble concentrating, and a sense of feeling slowed down or restless.

Depression is actually quite common, with recent figures showing that about 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men in the United States will experience a significant episode of depression sometime before age 65. Most people with depression report it can be truly disruptive, making life more difficult. There isn’t a single cause for depression: sometimes it runs in families due to genetic factors, sometimes it’s linked to underlying medical issues such as vitamin deficiencies, sleep apnea, or hypothyroidism. Stressful life situations, persistent negative thoughts or self-talk, and other factors can also play a role. The good news is that depression is very treatable, and recognizing its signs is a key first step toward getting support.​

Our approach to treatment of depression

Depression often results from a combination of factors such as our health, stress, and how we engage with negative thoughts. Our treatment approach is reflective of nuanced combination of these factors and individualized to each patient. Diagnosing depression is often straightforward, while understanding the forces that perpetuate depression in a patient and tailoring treatment to address those forces is where we excel. This often involves a combination of medication alongside psychotherapy and practical lifestyle adjustments. Depression is often overwhelming, but with expert guidance and a collaborative approach, it can become much more manageable.

Where treatment begins

If you’ve been feeling weighed down by depression or feel ready for things to change, taking that first step can make all the difference. Reach out today to schedule an appointment.