What Is Depression?
Depression, recognized as a mood disorder, induces persistent feelings of despair, sadness, and irritability. Also referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD), it often leads individuals to lose interest in once-enjoyable activities. Affecting individuals of all ages, depression is widespread, with studies indicating that 20% of Americans experience severe depressive episodes each year. Seeking assistance for depression can be daunting; however, at Serenity Mental Health Centers, our team aims to empower patients by providing understanding, tailored treatment options, and unwavering support throughout their journey to recovery. Our Sugar Land, TX team is here to help.
How Is Depression Treated?
There are various types of depression, including postpartum depression, clinical depression, and treatment-resistant depression. An essential step in depression treatment involves identifying the specific type one may be experiencing. Talk therapy and medication are common and effective treatments for many individuals. However, our team recognizes the uniqueness of each patient, understanding that what works for one may not work for another. Alongside conventional treatments, we offer innovative alternatives such as TMS therapy and ketamine IV therapy. Attentive to each patient's feelings and concerns, our team collaborates to devise a depression treatment plan tailored to their individual needs without compromising their wellness objectives.
What are the common symptoms and underlying causes of depression?
Depression is a serious and often misunderstood mental health disorder that can impact how a person feels, thinks, and functions in everyday life. It typically develops from a mix of genetic, psychological, environmental, and biological factors, making each case unique.
People living with depression may experience a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including:
- A deep or prolonged sense of sadness
- Lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities
- Significant changes in eating habits or body weight
- Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much
- Persistent exhaustion or low energy
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness
- Suicidal thoughts or preoccupation with death
While depression doesn’t have a single, clear cause, several contributing factors are often involved:
- Family history
- Chemical imbalances in the brain
- Hormonal changes
- Ongoing stress or trauma
- Chronic physical illness
What Are the Risk Factors for Depression?
Depression can stem from a complex interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological elements. Factors that can predispose someone to depression include:
- Genetic predisposition A history of depression or mental health issues in the family
- Brain chemistry fluctuations Variations in neurotransmitter levels that can affect mood
- Hormonal adjustments Experiencing hormonal changes due to pregnancy, postpartum recovery, menopause, or thyroid problems
- Life stressors Facing significant events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, unemployment, or financial strain
- Past trauma or abuse Encounters with physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Chronic conditions Living with long-term health issues like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or chronic pain
- Substance use The use of alcohol or drugs that impairs cognitive and emotional function
- Social support deficits Dealing with isolation or problematic interpersonal relationships
- Sleeping problems Suffering from inadequate or disrupted sleep
- Physical inactivity A lifestyle with insufficient physical activity, which can impact mental health adversely
Depression Reviews
I had my first visit at Serenity Mental health and spoke with Dr. Hossien. I was a bit apprehensive and my anxiety was really bad because I didn't really know what to expect. I've seen other psychiatrist before and really never had good experiences with them. However, after I arrived I was still anxious but when I was talking with Dr. Hossien my anxiety calmed down. What I loved about him is that he was actually listening to me, he showed empathy and understood what I felt. He explained everything in detail answered all my questions. I felt safe and the staff showed me compassion. I left feeling very pleased with Serenity Mental Health. And I feel so optimistic that they will help me get back to feeling better and getting my life back. Thank you to Dr. Hossien and staff. I would highly recommend Serenity Mental Health.
Truly a place for those who have battled depression and anxiety and feel like medication did not work or is not as effective as you would like. This is a different approach to a chronic problem with quick results
Everyone at the office as really nice, professional, and welcoming. Dr. Hossain was very knowledgeable and not only helped me with my ADHD diagnosis, but also took the time to educate me properly.
I had a great experience with Serenity and Dr. Jackson . They were able to assess me and assist me in managing with my needs. They provided lots of information and education on how to manage my diagnosis. They are well organized and the ladies at the front Desk is very welcoming and thoughtful. They have appointments starting as early as 6am up to 7pm. Update: 2/01/24 I really enjoy the services I have been receiving. They are attentive and thorough in their services. I am trying new technologies and successfully managing my diagnosis. Serenity has been a great service. I wish they offered psychotherapy and make it a one stop shop. Everyone is friendly, not judgmental, and work with you in every-way. This is the best service I have received in med management for mental health. They truly have been a blessing.
4
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes depression from mere sadness?
It's natural to feel sad every now and then. However, depression is far more severe than occasional sadness. It involves enduring or severe sadness accompanied by a variety of other symptoms. These can include a lack of interest in activities that were once pleasurable, feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, excessive guilt, reduced energy, trouble focusing, changes in appetite, disrupted sleep, physical aches like headaches and body pains, and, potentially, suicidal thoughts.
Is depression something that affects children?
Yes, depression can affect children. While it is often thought of as an adult issue, children are not immune to depression. The symptoms in children may look different, including irritability, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, constant sadness, withdrawal from friends and activities they previously enjoyed, and lower energy levels. It's important for parents, caregivers, and educators to be aware of these signs and seek proper medical guidance to help them.
What happens if depression isn't treated?
When depression is not treated, it can result in severe complications, such as declining physical health, impaired ability to work or socialize, substance abuse, and an increased likelihood of suicidal thoughts and actions. These potential dangers emphasize the importance of identifying and addressing depression early to avoid prolonged health and social problems.
Find the Joy of Living Again
If you're grappling with depression or its symptoms, remember, you're not alone. The emotions induced by depression can feel overwhelming and daunting. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, our mission is to equip our patients with the understanding they need about their condition, enabling us to tailor the right treatment for their individual needs. Take that crucial first step toward a brighter tomorrow by requesting an appointment at our Sugar Land, TX office today.