Depression

Depression, also called depressive disorder, is characterized by decreased energy, sadness or despair, loss of interest in hobbies and routines, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It is much more than feeling down and requires an understanding that few providers outside the psychiatric specialty possess. Our licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners have been helping depressed individuals recover from the disorder for years, and they want to help you, too.

If you’ve been feeling helpless to overcome your depression, Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group is on your side. We know that taking action is especially hard to do when you’re in a depressive state. All you need to do is pick up the phone or schedule an appointment online to take that first step toward recovery. We’re waiting to help you.

Depression Statistics

It is estimated that 16 million Americans will have a major depressive episode in their lifetime. The valid number of people living with depression is impossible to know because two-thirds of sufferers never reach out for or receive help. Each year in the USA, 43,000 people die from suicide. More women are affected by depression than men.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression often manifests as the following symptoms:

• Changes in Sleep

• Changes in Appetite

• Inability to Concentrate

• Low Energy

• Lack of Interest in Activities

• Feeling Sad or Hopeless

• Physical Body Aches

• Thoughts of Death and Suicide

If you or a loved one is showing any of the above symptoms, it is essential to reach out for help. Depression can lead to suicide, the second leading cause of death in 15 – 29-year-olds worldwide.

Types of Depression

At Advanced Psychiatry, we treat all depressive disorders, including:

• Major Depressive Disorder. Also called clinical depression, persistent sadness, lack of energy or motivation, and a feeling that life isn’t worth living.

• Persistent Depressive Disorder. Chronic low-level depression that lasts longer than one year.

• Postpartum Depression. Hormonal changes and stress following childbirth bring on depression.

• Seasonal Depression. Depression within a seasonal cycle, usually occurring in fall and winter.

• Psychotic Depression. Depression with psychotic features like hallucinations, sometimes occurring with bipolar disorder.

Treatments for Depression

A multi-pronged approach is often necessary to successfully treat depression. First, inpatient treatment might be essential if the patient is at risk of suicide or self-harm. Our care providers will arrange this treatment to protect the patient if needed.

Therapy, often dialectical behavioral therapy, is integral to the treatment equation. It teaches patients how to identify and track their moods and function even when their mood is low.

Antidepressants or antipsychotic medications are available to stimulate the patient’s brain and treat their persistent symptoms. Patients need a trusted professional to prescribe the most effective medicines and adjust the dosage. Our psychiatric nurse practitioners do just that, and they always consider the patient’s feedback.

Our philosophy is one of collaborative treatment. Our patients know their minds and bodies better than anyone, so they should have a say in their treatment plan. We monitor the patient’s progress through follow-up appointments to discover what’s working and what isn’t. If one drug is not producing optimal results, we discuss other options with the patient to develop a successful strategy.

Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group Offers Hope

Depression can leave you feeling like there is no light at the end of the tunnel, but that’s not true. You still have a life to live, and it is worth living! Call Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group today or schedule an appointment using our online portal. No one should ever have to suffer through depression alone.