Depression

​​Depression isn’t just a rough patch you can pull yourself out of. It’s a serious mental health condition that can be devastating if left untreated. Stephanie Blanshan, PMHNP, FNP, and the team at Resonance Psychiatry can diagnose and treat depression via telehealth. Call the office or book an appointment online today for individualized depression treatment.

What is depression?

Also known as major depressive disorder, depression is a common but serious problem that changes the way you think, feel, and behave. Depression can make day-to-day tasks like going to work or school seem overwhelming. At its worst, depression can make you feel like life isn’t worth living.

Who does depression affect?

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in the United States. In a recent survey, more than 17 million American adults experienced at least one major depressive episode within one year. About 64% of those adults suffered severe impairment due to depression. 

But depression doesn’t only affect adults. People of all ages, including teenagers and children, experience depression. Even if you don’t suffer from depression yourself, having a family member or loved one with this condition is difficult. 

The team at Resonance Psychiatry specializes in helping individuals overcome the challenges of depression. They evaluate and treat adults with various depressive illnesses, including major depressive disorder, seasonal depression, and bipolar disorder. 

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

Depression may cause many symptoms or only a few. During a period of depression, you experience some of these symptoms for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Signs and symptoms of depression typically include:

• Decreased energy
• Persistent low or empty mood
• Irritability or angry outbursts
• Sleeping too much or not enough
• Changes in appetite and weight loss or gain
• Anxiety, restlessness, or agitation
• Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts
• Unexplained physical aches and pains
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions

If you’re thinking about suicide, go to the nearest emergency room or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 immediately.

How is depression diagnosed and treated? 

If you or someone you love suffers from depression, your provider can help. They evaluate many personal factors that may contribute to depression, including:

• Biological factors like genetics and family history
• Psychological factors like personality and coping skills
• Social factors like stressors at home, work, school, or the larger community setting

The Resonance Psychiatry team also considers your spiritual life. After they develop a thorough understanding of you as a whole person, your provider develops an individualized treatment plan. They recommend effective, evidence-based depression treatments, including psychotherapy and medication management. Most patients benefit from a combination of both. 

Don’t wait to get help for depression. Call Resonance Psychiatry or request a telehealth appointment online today.