We all get down in the dumps sometimes. For most of us, it is transitory and we work our way out of it. For others, depression is a real part of their lives. Many keep it to themselves and tell no one, but don’t allow depression to go untreated.
What Is Depression
There are some set characteristics that define depression. It is thought of as a major mood disorder or clinical depression. There are feelings of sadness, loss, or anger. It does not go away in a few days or weeks. These feelings of sadness can be constant.
According to Mayo Clinic common emotions and behaviors include:
- sadness
- hopelessness
- loss of interest in hobbies or former enjoyable interests
- fatigue
- difficulty with concentration
- remembering things
- making decisions
Many depressed people find it difficult to define; they just know they feel sad and nothing helps.
The post-pandemic world we live in has increased depression, and in fact, it tripled from 2020 to 2021. According to The Lancet depression among young adults went from 8.5% to 27.8%. In 2021 it rose to 32.8%.
All these people are not going to psychiatrists, so how are they coping?
Your PCP May Be Your First Line Of Defense
Primary care providers, or PCP, are dealing with more cases of depression than ever before.
You are screened for depression each time you see your PCP. They will ask a few leading questions about how you are feeling. Based on your answers, they may begin a conversation with you on the topic.
Most patients are comfortable talking with their primary care provider and will usually open up about their feelings. Your doctor may ask if you would like a mild antidepressant medication. They will evaluate your progress on your next visit, and sometimes they will give you a higher prescription if it has helped some, but not quite enough.
If this approach is not reducing your feelings of depression, they may refer you to a mental health professional like Pathway Psychiatry and Counseling Center in Wylie.
Talk with your primary care provider if you are having feelings of sadness that linger. Encourage other members of your family to do likewise. Don’t be silent about your feelings of depression.
Schedule a Depression Consultation
Don’t let depression control your life any longer. Seek professional help and get the treatment you need. Contact a Dr. Gardner today to learn more about the options available to you, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. There is hope, and you deserve to feel better. Make the call now and take the first step towards recovery.