Depression

Almost a third of adults in the United States have been diagnosed with depression, but many are able to manage their symptoms and lead full and productive lives. At Active Healing Psychiatric Services in Gilbert, Arizona, Michaela Beaver, DNP, can help you understand your depression. She provides compassionate depression care tailored to your needs. Call today or click the online booking button to learn about your depression treatment options. 

What are common signs and symptoms of depression?

Depression, also called major depressive disorder, can look a little different for everyone. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go throughout your life. 

Generally, depression symptoms go beyond typical feelings of sadness that most people experience on occasion. Depression might involve:

• Feeling hopeless or worthless
• Losing interest in topics and activities you normally enjoy
• Feeling tired all the time
• Sleeping a lot or not enough
• Changing your eating patterns 
• Having trouble focusing
• Thinking about death

The symptoms of depression can overlap with several mental health disorders, so getting an accurate diagnosis is the key to getting effective care. Dr. Beaver provides a comprehensive mental health evaluation to confirm if your symptoms are linked to depression. 

Why is depression treatment important?

Without adequate care, depression can worsen over time. Your symptoms can impact your ability to function, your relationships with others, and your overall life stability. 

Even though depression is a mental health disorder, untreated depression can contribute to chronic pain and physical health conditions. 

In severe cases, untreated depression can lead to suicidal thoughts, planning, or actions. Some people use dangerous substances to try to overcome depression symptoms on their own. 

Fortunately, depression is highly treatable with individualized, evidence-based care. Depression treatment can prevent harmful behaviors and help restore a sense of normalcy and well-being in your life. 

How can I manage my depression? 

At Active Healing Psychiatric Services, Dr. Beaver provides individualized depression treatment with regular check-ins to update your treatment plan as needed. 

Your treatment plan might involve:

Medication management

Antidepressant medications may help reduce the intensity of your depression so you can function more easily daily. In most cases, it takes 2-3 months to adjust to a medication and see results. You might need to try multiple medications to find a good fit. 

Therapies 

Dr. Beaver specializes in several unconventional treatments for depression, including ketamine therapy, light therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. Of course, she may also recommend some form of talk therapy to help you understand and cope with symptoms. 

Lifestyle guidance

Lifestyle guidance and simple modifications can go a long way in improving depression symptoms like low energy or guilt. Dr. Beaver may recommend changing your routine to help cope and adapt. 

Call Active Healing Psychiatric Services or request an appointment online for comprehensive depression care today.