Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a common mental health condition that disrupts the way you feel, think, and act. Depression is different from feeling sad or experiencing grief. It’s pervasive and may or may not have an identifiable trigger. It also doesn’t fade with time, but instead, your symptoms become more intense and disruptive. 

Depression often co-occurs with other mental health conditions like anxiety or substance abuse. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the United States, causing disproportionate and sometimes irrational fears and worries. 

Living with an untreated mental health condition interferes with your overall quality of life. You might find it hard to maintain relationships with friends and family or struggle to meet your work responsibilities. 

What are the signs of depression?

Depression causes a wide variety of distressing symptoms, including:

• Intense and persistent feelings of sadness, despair, and hopelessness
• Losing interest or pleasure in hobbies and other activities
• Social withdrawal
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Changes in appetite
• Reduced concentration
• Fatigue or low energy
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Thinking of death or suicide

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you should make an appointment at Mannam Medical & Wellness for help. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room if you are considering hurting yourself or committing suicide. 

How is depression treated?

The team at Mannam Medical & Wellness begins with a thorough consultation and exam. They ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. They also run tests to check for thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, and other medical issues that can disrupt your mood. 

Then, your provider works with you to implement a treatment plan. They often combine medication, counseling, and lifestyle modifications to help you cope with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. 

Medication can take several weeks to work, but eventually regulates your brain chemistry to reduce your symptoms. This frees up your mental and emotional space to focus on resolving any underlying issues that contribute to your condition. 

Your provider might also suggest dietary changes, daily physical activity, and hobbies like meditation, yoga, or tai chi to enhance your mental, emotional, and physical health. 

Don’t ignore depression or wait for it to go away. Call Mannam Medical & Wellness, or make an appointment online today, for expert diagnosis and treatment.