Depression

Major depression is a common mental health condition that affects more than 8% of American adults and 15% of youth. Bright Shadows Telepsychiatry, led by Rondeshya “Ronnie” Cosby, NP,  offers welcoming depression care to patients aged 12 and older in and around Virginia and North Carolina. Convenient virtual appointments can improve symptoms of depression and restore joy and well-being. Whether you’re interested in therapy, medication, or helpful daily tools, call the friendly staff today or request a consultation online.

What is depression?

Depression, or major depressive disorder, is a chronic mental health condition that creates severe sadness lasting at least two weeks. Depression can affect any age and may improve but then return throughout your lifetime.  

Women may be at higher risk for depression due to changes in hormone levels during puberty, pregnancy, after giving birth or having a miscarriage, or during menopause. 

A car accident, job loss, sudden illness, death in the family, divorce, or other traumatic life event can trigger depression. 

What are the symptoms of depression? 

Emotional and physical symptoms of depression in all ages include: 

• Sadness or feelings of emptiness 
• Hopelessness 
• Anxiety 
• Isolation 
• Trouble focusing 
• Oversleeping or insomnia 
• Trouble finding daily pleasure 
• Avoiding personal grooming
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness 
• Loss of sex drive 
• Loss of appetite 
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Fatigue or muscle aches 
• Suicidal ideations (which require emergency treatment) 

Adolescents may be consistently grumpy or bored and have non-specific complaints like an upset stomach or headache.

What is the treatment for depression?

According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), of all mental disorders, depression is among the most treatable, with 80-90% of patients finding relief with treatment.

The team may have you or your adolescent undergo blood tests to determine if an underlying medical condition contributes to depression symptoms. Then, they develop a holistic treatment plan. 

Medications 

Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) increase serotonin levels in your brain, helping improve mood and energy.  

The team discusses the side effects of certain antidepressants with you — sedation, weight loss or gain, and decreased sex drive. You can try different medications and dosages before deciding which best suits you or your adolescent’s needs.

Antidepressants can take four to six weeks to show results, so sharing your symptoms and progress with the team is vital. 

Psychotherapy 

Also known as talk therapy or counseling, psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) help you or your adolescent focus on the present situation and solve current problems.  

During sessions, the team can help you address conflicts and issues with relationships, school, or work. 

You may also benefit from self-management tools like local support groups, improved diet and exercise, or meditation and journaling. 

For compassionate depression care, call Bright Shadows Telepsychiatry today or request an appointment online.