Major Depressive Disorder

Depression treatment in Glendale, CA with Dr. Hughes

Recognizing the symptoms of depression

Depression is often misunderstood. People hear the word depression, and they think of a temporary funk or a sad day. The reality is depression is much more than occasional feelings of sadness. It can have a significant impact on one’s life and their ability to function.

Our providers specialize in treating depression.   We can help you or your loved one find relief if they are close to Glendale, CA. Contact us to schedule your first visit to start making changes.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that causes long-lasting feelings of sadness or despair. It is also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression.

To be diagnosed with clinical depression, patients must meet highly specific criteria. Even so, many people experience the symptoms and effects of depression without meeting the criteria for an official diagnosis. Therapy can help patients with diagnosable depression and those who are struggling with depressive feelings. Medications or FDA approved procedures, such as TMS, may be beneficial as well.  If depression is impacting your life, don’t hesitate to contact The C.U.B.E. for assistance.

Symptoms of Depression

Our providers have helped many patients overcome the signs of depression. Symptoms include:

• Reduced interest in activities
• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Tiredness or lack of energy
• Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping more or less than usual)
• Weight loss or gain
• Feelings of guilt
• Difficulty concentrating

Depression can be tricky to spot because many patients with the condition don’t realize they have it. If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing depression, consult with a licensed mental health professional to determine the cause and if treatment is needed.

Clinical Depression vs. The Blues: How to Know If It’s Really Depression

Life is challenging. Everyone experiences sadness and bad days periodically. This is normal and often referred to as the blues. But, if you experience those feelings more often than not, you may have more than the blues and instead be suffering from clinical depression. So, how can you tell the difference?

• If feelings of sadness are interfering with work, sleep, or other daily activities, you may have depression.
• If your moods become erratic or seem to swing from highs to lows, you may benefit from seeing a depression specialist.
• If sadness lingers or you’re not bouncing back after a challenging situation, it may be worth exploring treatment.

Clinical depression is not something you can bounce back from on your own. Treatment with a professional is often needed for recovery.

Most common treatments for depression

• Talk therapy
• Psychiatric medication
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
• Electroconculsive therapy (ECT)

Steps You Can Take Now

It is okay to not feel normal in certain situations like getting a bad grade on a test, losing a loved one, or ending a relationship. The most important part of taking the first step is recognizing when the disruption of normalcy requires professional intervention.

If you or a loved one are struggling with major depressive disorder, contact The C.U.B.E. to explore treatment options in Glendale, CA.