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Would you be surprised to learn that 21 million adults struggle with depression? What’s more troubling is that nearly three out of four have severe symptoms that significantly disrupt their daily life. If your symptoms last longer than two weeks, it’s time to seek help from Bradley McClure, MD, and his caring team at McClure & Associates Psychiatry in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They support your mental well-being with personalized treatment that targets your unique needs. Call the office today or use online booking to request an appointment and begin receiving exceptional care for depression.
Depression Q & A
Why am I depressed?
Depression often begins when you face a life problem. Many people become depressed after separating from their partner, losing a job, or learning they (or someone they love) have a major illness. Dealing with stress and conflicts at work or home also leads to depression.
Sometimes, depression strikes out of the blue, leaving you confused about why you can’t fight off the sadness or hopelessness. This can happen because many factors influence mood centers in your brain. For example, a genetic tendency or an undiagnosed health condition like a hormone imbalance could trigger depression.
No matter why you’re depressed, it’s vital to know that depression lasting two weeks or longer won’t heal without treatment.
What depression symptoms will I have?
Whether your depression feels mild or severe, you will have several of the following symptoms:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, and worthless
- Losing interest in activities you enjoy
- Gaining or losing weight
- Having insomnia or oversleeping
- Moving slowly and aimlessly
- Feeling drained of energy
- Struggling to concentrate
- Thinking about death or suicide
Many people feel numb and avoid family and friends. You could also feel agitated and have sudden emotional outbursts.
How is depression treated?
Your McClure & Associates Psychiatry provider first learns about your symptoms, why you’re depressed, and your medical and mental health history. Then, they work with you to create a treatment plan targeting your unique mental health needs.
People with moderate to severe depression may need antidepressants to improve their mood. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is often the primary treatment for mild depression, but it’s also essential for those taking medications.
Your therapy may focus on helping you find solutions to the life problem responsible for your low mood, but there are many therapeutic approaches. One approach teaches you to identify and change negative thoughts, while other therapies may focus on healing emotions or setting future goals.
Your McClure & Associates Psychiatry provider may also discuss lifestyle changes. Exercise triggers the release of hormones that improve depression. You also need certain nutrients and enough sleep to support your brain’s ability to regulate mood.
Call McClure & Associates Psychiatry or use online booking today to take the first step toward overcoming depression.