Depression

Up to 9.5% of Americans 18 and older have depression. While everyone feels sad occasionally, if your symptoms persist for weeks or months, get professional help. I am Steven Gotlib, MD. My practice is Steven L. Gotlib, MD, PC, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in diagnosing and treating depression and other mental health problems. Call the office or request a depression consultation via the online form today.

What is depression?

Depression is a behavioral disorder characterized by intense feelings of sadness or loss of interest. Without diagnosis and treatment, depression may affect your outlook, mood, and physical health.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Symptoms of depression include:

• Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Angry outbursts
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Changes in appetite and unintended weight loss or gain
• Reduced libido 
• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
• Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
• Trouble concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Unexplained physical problems, like back pain, stomach pain, or headaches

Depression may trigger thoughts of death or self-harm (suicidal ideation).

It's important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may manifest differently in different people. If you or someone you know is experiencing severe symptoms of depression, it is important to seek professional help.

Who is at risk of depression?

Depression affects people of all ages and races, but several factors may increase your risk, including, but not limited to:

• Personality traits, like having low self-esteem or being overly self-critical
• A family history of depression
• Personal history of depression or other mental health conditions
• Chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease or cancer
• Trauma or abuse
• Chronic stress, such as financial stress or relationship problems
• Substance abuse
• Lack of social support, such as after a divorce, or the death of a spouse, or a close friend 
• Certain medications
• Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause
• Genetics
• Being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender
• History of mental health disorders, such as anxiety
• Serious chronic illness, like cancer or heart disease
• Family members with a history of depression
  
  

Taking certain prescription medicines may increase the risk of depression, such as blood pressure drugs. Anyone can be at risk for depression, regardless of background or circumstances.

How is depression diagnosed?

The diagnostic process typically includes an assessment of symptoms, a thorough medical and psychological history, and, if one has not been done recently, a physical examination by your primary care physician to help rule out possible medical causes of depression, such as a thyroid disorder, or other hormonal or vitamin imbalances.  

Being as thorough and honest about what you are going through will help me help you as much as possible.  Depression is a complex condition, and the more I understand you and your background, the better I can help you. A proper evaluation and diagnosis are crucial for treatment. Our responses play a vital role in guiding treatment.

How is depression treated?

Treatment of depression depends on the severity of your symptoms, the underlying cause, and your general health. 

Studies have shown that depression is most effectively treated with a combination of therapy and medication. That is why I have had extensive training in therapy and using medications. Generally, I find that as therapy progresses over time, my patients often need smaller doses of medication or no medication at all.

Additionally, support from loved ones and self-care practices such as exercise, a healthy diet, and sleep hygiene can also play a role in managing depression. 

Finding a combination of treatments that meet your needs may take some trial and error, but getting started is the first step.  Often overcoming the barrier of taking that first step and starting therapy helps people realize that there is help and hope. 

Call my practice, Steven L. Gotlib, MD, PC, to ask questions about treatment for depression and set up an initial consultation with me today. You can also reach out via the online form.