Depression
When you suffer from depression, it can affect your work performance and damage your relationships.
Onyebuchi Ogbo, PMHNP, and the experienced providers at Good Path Health Services offer holistic, integrative therapies to address depression. Don’t let depression prevent you from living a full, productive life. Schedule an evaluation for depression with a skilled expert by calling the office in Norwood, Massachusetts, today or making an appointment online.
What is major depressive disorder?
Major depressive disorder, usually referred to simply as “depression,” affects 11 million adults in the United States, as estimated by the National Institute of Mental Health.
When you suffer from depression, you experience overwhelming negative emotions, such as sorrow, hopelessness, or worthlessness. These can create a lack of interest in daily activities, low self-esteem, and difficulties in your work and personal relationships.
What causes depression?
Depression may arise after a specific, negative experience, but this isn’t always the case. Many people experience depression without having a triggering experience.
Why some people are susceptible to depression isn’t yet fully understood. Still, studies have shown that chemical imbalances in the brain, hormonal imbalances, and vitamin or nutrient deficiencies can contribute to the condition.
You’re more likely to experience depression if you have the following risk factors:
- Family history of depression
- Substance abuse
- History of physical or sexual abuse, neglect, and other types of trauma
- Chronic severe illness
Marginalized groups and economically vulnerable people also have an increased risk of depression. It also affects more women than men.
How do I know if I have depression?
The primary symptoms of depression are overwhelming negative emotions, including sadness, guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness. Additional symptoms of depression in men and women can look like:
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Fatigue
- Decreased libido
- Reduced appetite
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Anxiety, irritability, or agitation
- Suicidal thoughts
- Self-harming behaviors
Depression is linked to physical symptoms as well, such as headaches, backaches, or digestive issues.
How is depression treated?
Because depression presents differently in each patient, the experts at Good Path Health Services design customized treatment plans to address your individual needs. Your provider may recommend:
- Psychotherapy or counseling
- Family or group therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Antidepressant medications
- Nutritional and lifestyle changes
