Depression

The Diagnosis of Depression is clinical and usually begins with a conversation about your symptoms, their duration, and how they affect daily life. We often use standardized screening tools to determine whether symptoms meet the threshold for major depressive disorder or another depressive condition. Depression can look different from person to person. Common symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Some people present with physical complaints like pain or fatigue rather than emotional symptoms; others may have anxiety, slowed movement, or, in severe cases, thoughts of self‑harm. Symptoms that last most of the day, nearly every day for at least two weeks are especially important to report.

Treatment is personalized and often combines psychotherapy and medication. Evidence‑based psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy help change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, while antidepressant medications can correct brain chemistry imbalances for many people. For moderate to severe depression, a combination of therapy and medication is commonly recommended; for mild cases, therapy, lifestyle changes, and close monitoring may be sufficient. Additional options for treatment‑resistant or severe depression include specialized therapies and close psychiatric care

If you’re struggling, tell us or loved one, and ask about screening and treatment options. Track symptoms, sleep, and mood to share with us; ask about side effects, expected timelines for improvement, and follow‑up plans. Recovery often takes weeks, and many people improve with the right supports and treatment. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, seek immediate help from a clinician or emergency services.