Depression

Everyone feels sad from time to time, but if your mood stays low for weeks or even months, an underlying health problem like depression may be to blame. At Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine in New York City, their team regularly diagnoses and treats patients with depression. Don’t hesitate to seek professional medical help. To schedule a telehealth appointment, call the office or request one online today. 

What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that affects the way you think and behave. It occurs when you go three months or longer with a persistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness.

Everyone feels sad occasionally, but depression is much more than that. Without intervention and treatment, it can negatively affect your job, relationships, and quality of life.

What are the symptoms of depression?

The symptoms of depression include:

• Lasting feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Angry outbursts or irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced appetite
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Trouble thinking or concentrating
• Increased forgetfulness

Over time, you might also experience physical symptoms, like chronic back pain, neck pain, or headaches.

When should I see a primary care provider about depression?

Make an appointment with the team at Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine if you feel depressed and your symptoms last for more than a week or two. That’s particularly true if they interfere with your ability to work, exercise, or spend time with your loved ones. Depression isn’t a weakness or defect; it’s a real-life medical condition that requires professional care.

What causes depression?

Mental health professionals aren’t entirely sure what causes depression, but several factors may contribute, including:

• Biological changes in the brain
• Brain chemistry
• Hormones
• Inherited traits

Most people first experience depression in their teens, 20s, or 30s. Depression affects people of all races and genders, but is most common in women.

How is depression diagnosed?

To diagnose depression, your Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine provider reviews your health records, asks about your symptoms, and performs a physical exam. They also order lab tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) and a thyroid panel, and perform a psychiatric evaluation. 

During a psychiatric evaluation, your provider asks about your thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns. They also have you rate your symptoms on a scale and fill out an in-depth questionnaire.

How is depression treated?

Treatment of depression depends on various factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your life. The team at Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine often recommends a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, talk therapy (counseling), and prescription medication.

Depending on your needs, the team might prescribe:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Atypical antidepressants
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

At first, it may take some trial and error to determine the type of medication that meets your needs. Be patient and follow your provider’s instructions accordingly.

To receive treatment for depression, call Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine or request an appointment online today.