What is depression?

Depression is a mental health condition that brings about persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. These symptoms profoundly affect how you feel, think, and act. It’s important to know that both children and adults can develop depression, and a family history of the condition may increase the risk. Additionally, various factors such as stress, trauma, abuse, violence, and low self-esteem can make you or your child more prone to experiencing depression.

Can depression be a side effect of other mental health conditions?

Yes, depression can be linked to other mental health conditions such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Moreover, alcohol and drug abuse can exacerbate or trigger depression symptoms.

When should I seek help for depression?

If you or your child experience persistent symptoms of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness, or any combination lasting for two weeks or longer, it’s essential to schedule a diagnostic evaluation. Look out for other signs of depression, including feelings of guilt, loss of energy, changes in appetite, disturbances in sleep patterns, and difficulties concentrating or making decisions. If left untreated, depression can worsen and increase the risk of self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

How does Breakthrough HQ address depression?

At Breakthrough HQ, we offer comprehensive depression screenings both in-office and through our remote telehealth platform. By evaluating the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your quality of life, we can personalize a treatment plan that best suits your needs, aimed at easing your symptoms and enhancing your overall quality of life.

How is depression treated at Breakthrough HQ?

Our treatment approach for depression involves a combination of therapies and medication. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) play significant roles in helping you identify negative thought patterns and empowering you to change your mindset and behaviors. In cases where therapy alone may not be enough, prescription antidepressants, which work by altering brain chemistry, can be considered. It’s important to note that the full benefit of medication may take a few weeks, and we continuously monitor its effectiveness over time.