Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is more than just feeling sad or having a bad day; it is a persistent condition that can impact every aspect of a person’s life. If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, it is important to seek professional help. Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O., provides expert psychiatric care to help patients manage and overcome depression effectively.
What is Depression?
Depression, sometimes known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. It can affect a person’s emotional and physical well-being, making it difficult to function in daily life.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression presents differently in each individual, but common symptoms can include:
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Physical symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues
- Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seeking professional help is essential.
Causes of Depression
The exact cause of depression is not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:
Biological Factors
- Imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine
- Hormonal changes
- Genetic predisposition
- Certain medical conditions
Psychological Factors
- Trauma or abuse
- Low self-esteem or chronic stress
- Negative thinking patterns
Environmental Factors
- Major life changes (e.g., job loss, divorce, death of a loved one)
- Lack of social support
- Substance abuse
Treatment for Depression
Depression is treatable, and various treatment options can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Medication
Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can help balance brain chemicals and alleviate symptoms.
Psychotherapy
Talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to depression.
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Adequate sleep
- Stress management techniques like meditation and mindfulness
Advanced Treatment Options
For individuals who do not respond to traditional treatments, options such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), ketamine therapy and other options may be considered.
Comprehensive Q&A Section
Q: How do I know if I have depression or if I’m just feeling down?
A: Feeling down occasionally is normal, but if you experience persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty functioning in daily life for more than two weeks, it may be depression.
Q: Can depression go away on its own?
A: While mild depression may improve over time, most moderate to severe cases require professional intervention. Seeking treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening, can increase the speed of symptom resolution and may help to prevent future episodes. .
Q: Are antidepressants safe?
A: Antidepressants are generally safe when taken as prescribed by a well trained and experienced psychiatrist. Utilizing an individualized approach, starting with low doses and slowly increasing to the lowest effective dose and maximizing one medication before considering others can decrease the risk of side effects. However, all medications may have side effects, and it is important to discuss concerns with your healthcare provider.
Q: What if I don’t want to take medication for depression?
A: Many non-medication treatments, such as therapy and lifestyle changes, can help manage depression. A well trained and experienced psychiatrist can help create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
Q: How can I support a loved one with depression?
A: Offer emotional support, encourage them to seek professional help, and be patient. Avoid judgment and reassure them that they are not alone.
Q: When should I seek professional help?
A: If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression that interfere with daily life, have been persistent and are out of proportion to life events, seeking help from a mental health professional is essential.
Contact Information
Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.
Phone: (424) 276-0777
Licensed in California, Hawaii and Alaska
Business Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday, Sunday: Closed
If you are struggling with depression, Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O., is here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.