What Is Depression?
Depression, often referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD), triggers persistent sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest in once-enjoyable activities. This mood disorder doesn't discriminate and affects individuals of all ages. Research indicates that each year, 20% of Americans endure a significant depressive episode. Recognizing the challenge of reaching out for help, Serenity Mental Health Centers helps patients understand their condition, discover suitable treatments, and receive continuous support in Southlake, TX.
How Is Depression Treated?
Depression manifests in various forms, including postpartum, clinical, and treatment-resistant depression. Identifying the specific type is critical in determining the correct management. Commonly, talk therapy and medication are utilized to combat depression, proving effective for many. However, our team acknowledges the individuality of each patient, understanding that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't apply to mental health treatment. Thus, we offer alternatives like TMS therapy and ketamine IV therapy alongside traditional methods. Our commitment is to listen closely to our patients' experiences and preferences to tailor a depression treatment plan that aligns with their needs.
What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Depression?
Depression is a multifaceted mental health condition that impacts a person's mood, thoughts, and overall daily life. It often arises from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. While the precise cause may vary from person to person, depression can be triggered or worsened by various elements.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Ongoing feelings of sadness or emptiness
- Lack of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Significant changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances, such as trouble sleeping or sleeping excessively
- Extreme fatigue or low energy
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Persistent feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Potential causes of depression include:
- Genetic factors or family history of depression
- Imbalances in brain chemicals or neurotransmitters
- Hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy or menopause
- Ongoing stress, trauma, or difficult life events
- Co-occurring medical conditions or physical illnesses
What Are the Risk Factors for Depression?
Depression can arise from a mix of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental influences. Factors that may increase the risk of depression include:
- Family history of depression or mental illness: A genetic predisposition to mood disorders
- Brain chemistry imbalances: Disruptions in neurotransmitter levels that regulate mood
- Hormonal fluctuations: Changes due to pregnancy, postpartum recovery, menopause, or thyroid conditions
- Significant life stressors: Events such as divorce, job loss, financial difficulties, or the death of a loved one
- Past trauma or abuse: Experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Chronic health conditions or pain: Ongoing medical issues like diabetes, heart disease, or persistent pain disorders
- Substance use: Alcohol or drug consumption that interferes with brain function
- Limited social support: Feelings of isolation or strained personal relationships
- Poor sleep patterns: Lack of quality sleep or ongoing sleep disturbances
- Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle that negatively affects mental health
Depression Reviews
Dr. Cragg is phenomenal! He actually listens to me, I've never had a Dr (especially not a psychiatrist) do that before. The TMS techs Chloe and Lani are amazing! I'm blown away by the amazing care and staff and Serenity. I feel so lucky I just happened to find this office while looking on Google. Highly recommend.
Serenity Mental Health Centers in Southlake has a very kind and responsive staff! A breathe of fresh air when a lot of psychiatrist offices send you straight to a robot or voicemail!
Im writing this review mostly in regards to TMS tech, Chloe. She is a superstar. I did 36 TMS sessions and seeing her was my absolute favorite part of the entire experience. She is so kind and warm and I’ve never felt more comfortable expressing my feelings to anyone else outside of my husband. Seeing her on a daily basis helped me build my confidence as a patient and as a person. She encouraged me in my goals, validated my concerns and feelings, and just offered an understanding ear when I needed it. I truly believe that Chloe is 90% of my mental health recovery and the rest may be due to the tms and medication. A true angel on earth. If you are considering doing TMS here, I would highly suggest requesting her personally. The serenity office itself is not amazing. It’s hard to get a hold of anyone on the phone, sometimes I’m on hold for over 45 minutes to get to a representative and they’re only that, a representative. There’s no direct phone line for your specific office. There was also a change in many personnel during my time here, which isn’t great for mentally unstable folks. I did like dr. Andrew, but she left. Dr. Cragg has been able to help me with my current situation and I am forever thankful. But truly, Chloe single-handedly makes Serenity a 5 star establishment. The world is a much better place because Chloe exists and cares about what she does. There are not enough words to truly express the depth of my gratitude.
It is the idealistic thing not to come to doctor’s office often but if this place was a restaurant I would come here every single day!!!! ❤️❤️ Everyone here is amazing. Every. Single. One of them. I’ve had depression for so decades and been to so many treatment but serenity is the bestest of the bestest. I’m almost done with TMS treatment and I had a huge improvement but I honestly don’t think I would’ve made the same improvement if I were at different clinics. Unless I had to change my clinic due to insurance change, I will keep coming back to here whenever I feel down!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between depression and sadness?
Feeling sad occasionally is a normal part of life. However, depression extends beyond occasional sadness. It involves prolonged or intense sadness accompanied by various other symptoms, such as a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, excessive guilt, reduced energy levels, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, disrupted sleep patterns, physical discomforts like headaches and body aches, and potentially, suicidal thoughts.
Can children get depression?
Yes, children can indeed experience depression. Although it is often seen as a condition that primarily affects adults, depression does not discriminate by age and can impact children as well. In children, the signs of depression may differ from those in adults and can include irritability, changes in eating and sleeping habits, persistent sadness, withdrawal from friends and activities they once enjoyed, and reduced energy. It is important for parents, caregivers, and educators to recognize these symptoms and seek appropriate medical guidance to address them.
What are the risks of untreated depression?
Untreated depression can result in severe complications, such as deteriorating physical health, reduced ability to function at work or in social settings, substance abuse, and an elevated risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. These consequences underscore the importance of early recognition and treatment of depression to prevent long-term psychosocial and health problems.
Find the Joy of Living Again
If you're battling depression, remember, you're not in this alone. The emotions tied to depression can feel intense and daunting. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we're dedicated to enlightening our patients about their condition so, together, we can identify a treatment tailored to their distinct needs. If you're ready to embark on the journey toward a hopeful future, reach out to our Southlake, TX office today.