Depression TreatmentAltamonte Springs, FL
Depression treatment can help people minimize and overcome symptoms of depression such as persistent sadness and loss of interest in once-loved activities. Without treatment, depression can affect people’s moods and ability to function. Fortunately, there are various options to address depression, from psychotropic medication management to counseling.
Florida Psychiatric Associates offers depression treatment for people in Altamonte Springs and the surrounding area. Our team can help improve your depression symptoms and quality of life. Call us at 407-960-5633 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment today.
Understanding Depression Treatment
Although it is normal to experience periods of sadness at times, feeling constant sadness or loss of interest can be a sign of depression. Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects how people feel, think, and act. It is a common disorder, affecting over 280 million adults worldwide, or about 3.8% of the population.
Without treatment, depression can prevent people from leading healthy and productive lives. While there is no cure for depression, the right treatment can help people manage their symptoms. Fortunately, depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions, with about 80 to 90% of people responding positively to treatment. Our team can help patients reach remission and improve their quality of life.
Depression Risk Factors and Symptoms
Depression is a complex condition. While the exact cause is unknown, it can occur due to a combination of genetic, psychological, environmental, and biological factors. Factors that can increase a person’s risk of depression may include abuse, certain medications, death or loss, genetics, or substance abuse.
People with depression may experience symptoms that range from mild to severe. For a person to receive a formal diagnosis, they must experience symptoms that impact their ability to function and last for at least two weeks. Symptoms can include:
- Decrease or increase in appetite
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Energy loss
- Fatigue
- Feeling guilty or worthless
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- Slowed movement or speech
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Not every person with depression will experience every symptom. Some people will only experience a few symptoms, while others may experience many at the same time.
Medication
Several medications are available to treat depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are some of the most common groups of antidepressants. SSRIs decrease the brain’s reuptake of serotonin, which leaves more serotonin available in the brain to minimize depression symptoms. SNRIs can also reduce depression symptoms by balancing the levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.
Other medications such as anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepines may also be effective in treating depression. However, people may not be able to use these drugs long-term since they can be addictive and less effective over time. Antidepressants may also have other side effects such as drowsiness, irritability, indigestion, or insomnia. Many patients will try various antidepressants before finding the one that works best for their needs.
Psychotreatment
Psychotreatment or talk treatment is another effective form of depression treatment. Research has shown that for mild to moderate depression, psychotreatment can be just as effective as antidepressants. It allows people to identify and work through the things that are triggering their depression. There are different types of psychotreatment, including cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) and interpersonal treatment.
The role of cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) in depression treatment is to reverse negative thought patterns that come with depressed moods so that people can think more positively. Interpersonal treatment allows patients to examine how their relationships with others affect their moods. Our psychiatrist will work with patients to help them identify and work through the moods and behaviors that accompany depression.
Benefits of Personalized Treatment
Depression affects every person differently. There is no one best form of depression treatment. However, it may take time and some trial and error to determine the optimal treatment plan. People with depression should not hesitate to seek personalized treatment, as the earlier they receive care, the more effective their results will be.
The right depression treatment will depend on the severity and pattern of a person’s depressive symptoms. Fortunately, even severe cases of depression are treatable. Treatment may include medications or psychotreatment, or a combination to help patients overcome their symptoms. Regardless of the type of treatment, patients need to understand that recovery can feel overwhelming or slow. Successful depression treatment requires time and commitment.
Call Us Today
Depression can prevent people from living life fully. Fortunately, depression treatment is available at Florida Psychiatric Associates. Call us today at 407-960-5633 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to prevent depression?
Since it is hard to determine the exact cause of depression, it makes prevention more difficult. Once a person has had a depressive episode, they can learn which lifestyle changes and treatments are beneficial for stopping a future episode from occurring. Actions that can help include staying active, getting sufficient sleep, minimizing stress, and adhering to treatment plans.
Who is at risk for developing depression?
Anyone can be affected by depression regardless of their age, gender, or ethnicity. However, some people are at greater risk for depression. For example, women and people with a genetic predisposition or other health conditions are more likely to develop depression.
How long will I need to take antidepressants?
The length a person will need to take antidepressants depends on various factors. These factors include the prescription type, dosage, depression severity, and the patient’s relapse risk. Our psychiatrist will work with each patient to determine the optimal treatment length.
Can I stop taking antidepressants on my own?
No. Patients who want to stop taking antidepressants should not quit on their own or all at once. Our team can help patients safely come off antidepressants to prevent triggering a relapse or causing harmful side effects.
How long does it take antidepressants to begin working?
The length of time it takes to see improvements from antidepressants varies for each person. Improvements in depressive symptoms can be visible in as little as one to two weeks. However, people may not notice a significant improvement with the first medication they try. It may take some time and trial and error to determine the right antidepressant to achieve maximum relief.
Contact Us
Florida Psychiatric Associates is located at
498 Palm Springs Dr Ste 100-127
Altamonte Springs, FL
32701
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