Depression services offered in Phoenix, AZ

Longer-term clinical depression, also called major depressive disorder (MDD), causes symptoms most of the day, nearly every day. In addition to low energy, fatigue, and lack of motivation, you have symptoms such as:

• Feeling hopeless, worthless, and sad
• Feeling anxious and irritable
• Avoiding family and friends
• Loss of interest in your favorite activities
• Eating either too much or too little
• Gaining or losing weight
• Sleeping too much or not being able to sleep
• Being unable to concentrate or make decisions
• Thinking about suicide or harming yourself

 
You may also have physical symptoms. MDD commonly causes muscle aches, joint pain, and chronic pain.

Persistent Depressive Disorder 

If your depression has lasted for over 2 years, you might have persistent depressive disorder. This condition combines what was called dysthymia (mild and long-lasting depression) and chronic major depression. You may receive treatment through therapy, medication or both.

Symptoms include:

• Appetite changes
• Changes in sleep (too much or not enough)
• Feeling tired all the time
• Low self-esteem
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feeling hopeless

Seasonal Affective Disorder

SAD mainly occurs when daylight is low in winter and usually lifts in spring and summer. Identifying and treating SAD can enhance the quality of life during these periods.

Bipolar Disorder

People with bipolar disorder go through severe mood swings, from high energy to low depression. The low periods resemble major depression symptoms. Treatments and medications that can control these mood changes may include mood stabilizers for regulating mood swings, psychotherapy for patients and families, and more.

After discussing your symptoms and completing a psychiatric evaluation, We work with you to develop a personalized care plan that meets your unique needs. Whether you are in the early stages of depression or have MDD, your customized treatment plan addresses your specific type of depression.

Your treatment may include therapy, antidepressants, or both. The severity of your symptoms guides decisions about medications. Antidepressants can help many people by increasing brain chemicals, but they take time before you feel the results.

With or without medication, therapy improves depression through many avenues. Therapy can help you identify and change negative thoughts, learn to manage behavioral and situational problems that contribute to depression, and help you regain a sense of control.

Participating in therapy also stimulates your brain. As you explore and change your thoughts, nerve communication improves and new nerve connections develop, helping to rebalance your brain.

If you feel sad and depressed, Peak Mental Health can get you back on the path toward a thriving life. Schedule an appointment today by calling the office or using the online booking feature.