Depression

What is Depression?

Depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening mental health condition. Clinically referred to as Major Depressive Disorder; depression negatively impacts your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is much more than a normal emotional response to loss, grief, or sadness. Fortunately, with personalized treatment and professional support, depression is a very manageable condition.

Medical researchers and mental health specialists understand that an imbalance in your brain chemistry can interfere with your thoughts and behaviors and create a depressed mood or state of mind. Beyond brain chemistry, other things like your hormones, family history, everyday life stressors, and experiencing trauma can also contribute to your depression.  

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression causes various symptoms that can severely impact your wellbeing and quality of life. The most common include:

• Depressed or irritable mood

• Loss of interest and pleasure in previously enjoyed activities

• Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty

• Difficulty concentrating

• Problems thinking and making decisions

• Changes in appetite

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Lack of energy or feeling fatigued 

• Thoughts of death and suicide

How do you treat depression? 

At Feel Good Concierge, the initial evaluation process starts with your first conversation with Juliet Bissett, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience. During a thorough assessment by Julie, she will talk with you about the symptoms you are currently experiencing. She will also gather information about your social and family life, your family, your personal medical history and past mental health history as well as your lifestyle. During the assessment phase, she will identify if you meet the criteria for major depression.  

If a diagnosis of depression is made, Juliet will speak with you about your customized treatment options. In collaboration with you, she will create a personalized treatment plan to relieve your depression symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. When appropriate, Julie will prescribe medication to regulate your brain chemistry and stabilize your mood. Once your depressive symptoms fade, you will have more mental clarity to focus on resolving any underlying issues that may contribute to your depressed mood.

If you’re concerned about depression, please contact Feel Good Concierge, private mental health and wellness practice today.