Depression

What is depression?

Also known as major depressive disorder, depression is a common but serious problem that changes the way you think, feel, and behave. Depression can make day-to-day tasks like going to work or school seem overwhelming. Fortunately, Dr. Amiri offers treatments that help you discover a renewed sense of hope, joy, and ambition.

Which symptoms can depression cause?

Common symptoms associated with depression include:

• Withdrawal from friends or family
• Weight gain or loss
• Changes in appetite
• Irritability
• Misusing drugs or alcohol
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Ongoing or severe sadness
• Feeling guilty, hopeless, shameful, or worthless
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Fatigue
• Physical aches and pains
• Difficulty concentrating

Symptoms range from mild to severe. Depression lingers for at least several weeks and can affect your job, grades, relationships, and daily life. See Dr. Amiri at the first sign of a problem. 

What are depression risk factors?

While the cause of depression isn’t always known, risk factors include:

• Family history of depression or anxiety
• Loss of a loved one
• Greif
• Body weight challenges
• Brain chemistry changes
• Some medications
• Chronic diseases
• Terminal illness 
• Neuroticism
• Personality disorder
• Traumatic life experiences
• Ongoing or extreme stress
• Genetics
• Drug or alcohol misuse
• Divorce 
• Job loss
• Financial challenges
• Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other neurological conditions

Adopting healthy habits may lessen the risk of developing depression.

How is depression diagnosed?

Dr. Amiri diagnoses depression by discussing your symptoms and medical history and completing a mental health evaluation. 

He uses the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Illnesses (DSM-5) to characterize mental health concerns based on mood, emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. He might also suggest lab testing or additional diagnostic tests. 

What are the treatments for depression?

Dr. Amiri may suggest one or more of the following depression treatments:

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle modifications that help ease depression include avoiding tobacco, drugs, and alcohol, eating nutritious foods, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and reducing stress. 

Medication management

Taking medications can reduce depression symptoms and help you feel more like yourself. Dr. Amiri tailors medication management plans to match your personalized needs. 

Therapy

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other therapies teach you ways of overcoming symptoms of depression in a healthy way. Attend therapy treatments weekly or as needed with Dr. Amiri. He might also suggest support groups.

Schedule a depression evaluation with Dr. Rod Amiri by calling his office or requesting an appointment online today.