If you experience depression, you may find it challenging to work, care for your family, or even get through the day. Depression also puts individuals at risk for a wide range of other health conditions, including sleep disorders and substance abuse. Fortunately, effective treatment is available. If you have symptoms of depression, Michelle Zyla, APRN, PMHNP-BC, can help. Contact Minds In Balance Psychiatry in Peoria, Arizona, to schedule an appointment for diagnosis and treatment. Or, request one online today. Telehealth services are also available.

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What is depression?

Depression is a mental disorder that affects your mood. It’s more than a fleeting feeling of sadness. If you have true depression, your low mood affects your life significantly and persists even when you try to make yourself feel better.

What causes depression?

Some of the factors that may contribute to depression include:

  • Hormonal changes or imbalances
  • Brain chemistry
  • Physical changes in the brain
  • Genetic traits

Certain risk factors may also increase the likelihood of depression. For example, depression may be more likely if you have recently experienced a traumatic event or have a serious illness.

Other mental health disorders like anxiety disorders, panic disorder, social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) can raise your risk of depression.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression causes different symptoms for different patients. However, some of the symptoms you may experience with depression include the following:

  • Deep feelings of hopelessness or sadness
  • Anxiety
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Irritability and angry outbursts
  • Tearfulness
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
  • Reduced or increased appetite
  • Unexplained physical symptoms

If you or a loved one has suicidal thoughts or is at risk, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.

How is depression diagnosed?

At Minds In Balance Psychiatry, your provider, Michelle, may suspect depression based on her initial assessment. However, to confirm this diagnosis, she’ll perform a physical exam and conduct a psychiatric evaluation. If you meet the criteria outlined, she’ll make a formal diagnosis.

What treatments are available for depression?

Treating depression can be difficult, and it often requires ongoing effort. Fortunately, various treatments may be effective if you have this condition.

In many cases, Michelle recommends medication if you’re diagnosed with depression. Medications prescribed to patients with this condition include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, atypical antidepressants, and tricyclic antidepressants. Patients sometimes need to try several remedies before they find one that works well.

In addition to medication, Michelle might also recommend psychotherapy. Depending on your individual needs, you may benefit from individual therapy, group therapy, or family therapy. Medication Management and telehealth services are also available.

If you think you or a loved one might have depression or if you need help managing the condition, don’t delay. Call Minds In Balance Psychiatry to schedule an appointment or request one online today.