Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects the way you think, feel, and function. It can negatively affect your mood, energy, concentration, sleep, appetite, and physical health.

Depression may develop gradually or appear after a major life event, but it can also occur without an obvious cause. It affects everyone differently, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Without treatment, depression can make it difficult for you to maintain healthy relationships, perform well at work, or enjoy everyday life.

A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation helps your provider identify the underlying causes of your symptoms and determine whether depression or another mental health condition is affecting your well-being.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression is a mixed bag of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms that persist for weeks or months and interfere with your daily activities.

Some of the telltale signs of depression are:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest in your favorite hobbies and activities
• Low energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Indecisiveness
• Loss of appetite
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Irritability or frustration
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Suicidal thoughts

Depression can also contribute to headaches, chronic pain, digestive issues, and other physical symptoms that don't always have a clear medical explanation.

How is depression treated?

Thankfully, depression is highly treatable, and the right care can help you feel like yourself again. At Oasis Health and Wellness, your provider works closely with you to craft a treatment plan that takes into account your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and personal goals.

Your treatment may include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
• Education about depression and recovery
• Medication management and adjustments
• Coping strategies
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Because depression often occurs in conjunction with anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mental health conditions, your provider evaluates your overall emotional health to ensure you receive comprehensive treatment.

If depression is making it difficult to enjoy your life, you don't have to face it alone. The Oasis Health and Wellness team stands ready to provide the support, guidance, and compassionate care you need. Call today or use the online scheduling feature to make an appointment.