Depression

When is depression a concern?

Depression is a serious mental illness and is always a concern. It’s not uncommon to have periods of sadness or a low mood, but with depression, the sadness is persistent, affecting how you think about yourself and interfering with your daily routine. 

There are different types of depression, including:

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

MDD, also called clinical depression, is a severe mood disorder that causes a low mood and energy level for two or more weeks that makes it hard to engage in your normal routine. 

Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)

PDD is a chronic type of depression. People with PDD have a generally low mood but can go about their normal routine. 

Perinatal depression

Perinatal depression, also called postpartum depression, affects women during or after pregnancy, making it hard to take care of themselves and their baby. 

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

SAD causes a depressed mood during the winter months when there’s less daylight.

I feel sad. How do I know if I have depression?

Only a medical professional can determine if you have depression. If you feel sad all day for two or more weeks, then you need to schedule a diagnostic evaluation at the office of Sylvia Cartwright, MD.

Other signs and symptoms of depression that need an evaluation include:

• Lack of energy
• Disinterest in activities
• Difficulty managing day-to-day responsibilities
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
• Anxiety
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Pain from unknown causes

Depression may co-occur with chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). People with bipolar disorder also experience periods of depression.

What happens during a diagnostic evaluation for depression?

Dr. Cartwright is a compassionate psychiatrist who conducts a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation so she can fully understand your mental and emotional state. She asks about your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your normal routine.

She reviews your medical and mental health histories and family history and may have you complete psychological questionnaires that help her formulate a diagnosis. Dr. Cartwright also offers pharmacogenomic testing for medication management.

What types of treatments help depression?

Using the information she gathers during your diagnostic evaluation, Dr. Cartwright creates a personalized therapeutic plan for your depression. Treatment may include a combination of therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes.

Call the office or Sylvia Cartwright, MD, today or book your depression consultation online.