There’s a lot of stigma surrounding mental health conditions, such as depression. However, this is a real illness that can affect people of all ages and walks of life — even children — and trigger numerous symptoms, such as:
- Irritability, anxiety, helplessness, and hopelessness
- Low energy and fatigue
- Difficulty making decisions, concentrating, or remembering things
- Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and weight
- Less interest in things or activities you once enjoyed
- Decreased libido
Depression can also lead to physical symptoms, ranging from headaches and body aches to digestive issues and pain. And, depression can even put your life at risk.
The good news is that, even though more than 264 million people live with depression worldwide, it’s also a highly treatable illness. At Compass Mental Health & Wellness in Houston, our team brings compassionate and holistic care to people of all ages. Here’s how we can help.
Psychiatric evaluations
There isn’t a single cause or type of depression.
For example, approximately 10-15% of new mothers experience depressive episodes — or postpartum depression — within three months of childbirth. Other people alternate between depressed lows and energized highs because of a depressive condition known as bipolar disorder. It’s also possible to have a depressive disorder with additional symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia.
Factors that can contribute to depression include:
- Brain chemistry
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetics
- Chronic illnesses or pain
- Other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, borderline personality disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder
- Alcohol or drug use disorders
- A history of trauma
Once we diagnose your depressive disorder, we can put together a personalized treatment strategy to help get your symptoms under control.
Treating depression
We treat depression on a case-by-case basis. For some individuals, antidepressant medications can provide relief. However, they may not be necessary.
Our depression treatment protocols involve providing integrative solutions, such as:
- Medication
- Counseling
- Mindfulness techniques
- Nutritional counseling
- Lifestyle changes
- Exercise recommendations
- Sleep analysis
If you have depression, we work closely with you to help you process your feelings in a healthy way and learn strategies to live a full and productive life without overwhelming feelings of sorrow or sadness.
Telemedicine appointments
We also offer telepsychiatry services to ensure you always get the care you need, even if you can’t get to our office.
These sessions work just like in-office visits, except you use your smartphone, tablet, or computer to connect with us via videoconference. These sessions are completely secure and HIPAA-compliant, so you can rest easy knowing your entire conversation is private and confidential.
You can also receive numerous services during a telepsychiatry appointment, including a psychiatric evaluation, treatment or counseling, and medication management. It also guarantees that you have access to our services where you can feel most relaxed — the comfort of your own home.
You’re not alone. If you feel depressed, we can help. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Compass Mental Health & Wellness today.