What Is Depression?

Depression, or Major Depressive Disorder, is a common and serious mood disorder marked by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms that impair daily functioning.

Signs & Symptoms

• Emotional:

  • Persistent low mood or feelings of emptiness

  • Loss of interest or pleasure in once-enjoyed activities

  • Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness

• Physical:

  • Changes in appetite or weight (increase or decrease)

  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)

  • Fatigue or loss of energy

• Cognitive & Behavioral:

  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

  • Psychomotor changes (slowed movements or agitation)

  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Causes & Risk Factors

• Genetics & Biology: Family history; neurotransmitter imbalances (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine)

• Environmental Stressors: Trauma, loss, chronic medical conditions, major life changes

• Psychological Factors: Negative thought patterns, low self-esteem, prolonged stress

• Medical Conditions & Medications: Thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies, certain drugs

Diagnosis & Assessment

A comprehensive evaluation by our licensed providers includes:

1. Clinical Interview: Exploration of mood history, symptom duration (≥2 weeks), and functional impact.

2. Standardized Questionnaires: PHQ-9 or Beck Depression Inventory to quantify severity.

3. Mental Status Examination: Assessment of appearance, mood, thought content, and cognition.

4. Medical Evaluation: Lab work to rule out physical contributors (e.g., thyroid function).

5. Collateral Information: When appropriate, input from family or close contacts.

Treatment & Management

1. Medication

   • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): e.g., sertraline, fluoxetine

   • Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine

   • Atypical Antidepressants: bupropion, mirtazapine

2. Psychotherapy

   • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifies and modifies negative thought patterns.

   • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and social functioning.

   • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): Combines mindfulness practices with cognitive approaches.

3. Lifestyle & Self-Help

   • Regular physical activity and balanced nutrition

   • Structured daily routines and sleep hygiene

   • Stress-reduction techniques (deep breathing, meditation)

   • Support networks and peer support groups

4. Advanced Treatments

   • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression

   • Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) in severe cases

Helpful Resources

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Depression
  https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

• American Psychiatric Association (APA): Depression
  https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression

• World Health Organization (WHO): Depression
  https://www.who.int/health-topics/depression

• MentalHealth.gov: Get Help for Depression
  https://www.mentalhealth.gov/get-help/depression

• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
  https://www.dbsalliance.org/

Book an Appointment

• Telehealth Sessions: Confidential online evaluations and follow-ups—schedule at https://fortifiedmindsgroup.com/contact

• In-Person Visits: Available in Virginia —find providers at https://fortifiedmindsgroup.com/providers