Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects how you think and act. This disorder causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness that last two weeks or longer.
Both children and adults can develop depression, especially after a traumatic event. The underlying cause of depression isn’t clear, but your environment, genetic history, and physical health can play a role.
In some cases, depression can be a side effect of other mental health disorders, such as anxiety or addiction.
When should I seek treatment for depression?
You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Mesquite Valley Integrated Health for depression symptoms that last more than two weeks or symptoms that interfere with your ability to work or meet your other responsibilities.
Symptoms of depression can include:
If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, get immediate medical attention at the local emergency room or call 911.
The team provides comprehensive depression screenings in-office to assess your symptoms and their severity. They may also recommend bloodwork or other diagnostic tests to ensure you don’t have an underlying health condition contributing to your symptoms.
Based on your evaluation, the team customizes a treatment plan to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
How is depression treated?
Treatment plans for depression typically involve a combination of medications and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Oral medications can ease persistent sadness and hopelessness. While it can take up to a month to see the full benefit of antidepressants, the medications can keep your condition well controlled in the long term.
If oral medications aren’t working well, you may be a candidate for ketamine infusion therapy. This treatment infuses low doses of ketamine into your bloodstream to rapidly reduce symptoms of treatment-resistant depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT helps you recognize negative thoughts and behavior patterns that contribute to depression. Through therapy, you learn tools that help you better cope with depression symptoms and enjoy a higher quality of life.
The team may also recommend lifestyle changes and diet improvements that support your physical and mental health. They can meet with you in-office or through the online telemedicine platform to monitor your treatment progress.
Call Mesquite Valley Integrated Health to schedule a depression evaluation or book an appointment online today.
