Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a common mental health concern affecting your mood. It can lead to mild or extreme sadness, negatively altering your quality of life. Depression can become deeply distressing when left untreated. If you’re constantly feeling down in the dumps, see Evan and the team at Sunshine Mental Wellness Associates Inc. for an evaluation. 

Which symptoms can depression cause?

Depression may lead to:

• Ongoing sadness
• Feeling extremely down
• Appetite or weight changes
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Fatigue
• Feeling guilty, hopeless, helpless, or worthless
• Loss of interest in once enjoyable activities
• Thoughts of suicide
• Problems concentrating
• Slowed movements
• Physical aches and pains
• Irritably
• Digestive problems

Depression can cause a lack of motivation, poor school or job performance, and challenges in interpersonal relationships. It’s sometimes dangerous if you have thoughts or self-harm.

What are the risk factors for depression?

The cause of depression isn’t always clear, but its risk factors include:

• Family history of depression 
• Stressful or traumatic events
• Loss of a loved one
• Brain changes
• Hormone fluctuations
• Financial challenges
• Job loss
• Divorce or breakup
• Dysfunctional home life
• Chronic disease

Being diagnosed with diabetes, an autoimmune disease, or another chronic condition may increase your chance of developing depression and/or anxiety.

How is depression diagnosed?

Evan completes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation using DSM-5 criteria to determine if you have depression, anxiety, or similar mental health concerns. He asks about your moods, behaviors, and thoughts. He also discusses your current medications, lifestyle habits, medical history, and goals. Evan offers Genomind genetic testing when clinically appropriate.

How is depression treated?

Your customized depression treatment plan may consist of:

• Lifestyle coaching
• Medication management
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Family or couples therapy
• Group therapy 
• Other forms of therapy 
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) referrals

Depression treatment at Sunshine Mental Wellness Associates Inc. is unique because it considers the whole person, including your medical history, trauma background, neurodivergent traits, stressors, sleep, and environment. 

This comprehensive approach helps Evan build an accurate plan to achieve meaningful, lasting improvements. You can expect symptom relief within a few weeks of beginning treatment. 

Help for depression is within reach at Sunshine Mental Wellness Associates Inc. Call the office or schedule a virtual appointment online today.