Conditions we treat
Depression
Depression is not a choice, a weakness, or something you can just push through. It is a medical condition — and one of the most treatable there is.
What is depression?
Depression is one of the most common and misunderstood mental health conditions. It goes far beyond feeling sad — it’s a persistent disruption in mood, energy, thinking, and physical functioning that can make even simple daily tasks feel impossible. At The Psychiatric Center, we treat the full spectrum of depressive disorders with the same rigor and compassion we bring to every condition.
We evaluate and treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Persistent Depressive Disorder (dysthymia), Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Postpartum Depression, Atypical Depression, and Treatment-Resistant Depression. For patients who haven’t responded to traditional antidepressants, we also offer Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray — an FDA-approved treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
Depression frequently co-occurs with anxiety, chronic pain, substance use, and other medical conditions. It can look different across people — some report sadness and tearfulness, while others present primarily with irritability, anger, or physical complaints. Recognizing depression in its many forms is the first step toward healing.
How depression can present differently
Emotional symptoms
Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. Feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or shame. In some people, depression presents primarily as irritability or anger rather than sadness.
Physical & cognitive symptoms
Fatigue and low energy that don’t improve with rest. Changes in sleep (insomnia or oversleeping). Changes in appetite and weight. Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions. A sense of physical heaviness or sluggishness.
Functional impact
Depression affects relationships, work performance, physical health, and quality of life. Many people with depression continue to function on the surface while suffering significantly — sometimes called “high-functioning” or “smiling” depression.
Quick facts
- Affects over 21 million US adults annually
- Leading cause of disability worldwide
- Highly treatable — 80%+ respond to treatment
- Often co-occurs with anxiety disorders
Related conditions
Our approach
How we treat depression
01
Understand
We start with a thorough psychiatric evaluation to understand your full history, symptoms, and any co-occurring conditions — ensuring an accurate diagnosis before recommending treatment.
02
Build a plan
We create a personalized treatment plan using evidence-based approaches — therapy, medication, Spravato® when clinically indicated, or a combination — tailored to your goals and life circumstances.
03
Support you
We stay with you throughout — adjusting treatment as needed, monitoring response, coordinating with other providers, and supporting you through the full arc of your care.
Common questions
Frequently asked
How do I know if I have depression or just a hard time?
Depression typically persists for at least two weeks and interferes meaningfully with daily functioning — work, relationships, sleep, appetite, the ability to enjoy things you normally enjoy. A hard time is usually tied to a specific event and lifts as the situation improves. If you’re unsure, a psychiatric evaluation can help clarify what’s going on.
What if antidepressants haven’t worked for me?
Treatment-resistant depression is both common and treatable. We offer advanced options including Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray, careful medication optimization, and combination therapy approaches. Not responding to the first medication you tried doesn’t mean you won’t respond to the right one.
Can therapy alone treat depression?
For mild to moderate depression, therapy alone can be very effective. For moderate to severe depression, the research consistently shows that combining therapy and medication works better than either alone. We’ll talk through what makes sense for your situation.
How long does treatment take?
Most people notice meaningful improvement within 4–8 weeks of starting treatment. Full remission may take several months, and we monitor and adjust your plan throughout. Depression treatment isn’t linear — some weeks feel better than others — and that’s expected.
You deserve to feel better
Call us to schedule an evaluation. Most new patients are seen within one to two weeks.