Depression

TELEHEALTH & FAMILY PRACTICE SERVING FLORIDA

Depression services offered in Destin, FL

Depression changes the way you think and feel, making it hard to focus and concentrate in your daily life. Sarah Baxley, DNP, evaluates and provides compassionate support for depression at Access Now Primary Care, LLC, a telehealth practice serving patients in and around Destin, Florida. To get prompt help for depression symptoms, call the office to schedule a telehealth visit or book online today.

What is depression?

Depression is one of the most common mood disorders and can affect your mental health for several weeks, months, or years. It causes persistent feelings of intense sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in the things that normally brighten your mood.

There are different types of depression. Major depressive disorder, or major depression, is one of the most common types and can affect your day-to-day life.

You can also have postpartum depression, which occurs after pregnancy. Seasonal affective disorder is another form of depression that happens during the same time for you each year.

Depression may also occur alongside other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depressive symptoms are similar in all types. Your symptoms can range from mild to severe and might fluctuate daily.

Some of the most common depression symptoms are:

Feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or guilt
Weight and appetite fluctuations
Sleeping too much or too little
Trouble concentrating
Difficulty enjoying activities you once loved
Fatigue or irritability
Distressing daily thoughts
Anxiety
Withdrawal from close friends and family

Depression and other mood disorders might feel impossible to treat when you’re experiencing their most severe symptoms. However, with the proper care, it’s possible to feel better and improve your symptoms.

How is depression treated?

With a combination of treatments, you can enhance your quality of life and outlook. Many strategies can improve depression symptoms.

Your personalized treatment plan might include specialist referrals to psychotherapy. Other treatments include:

Behavioral counseling
Stress management
Nutritional guidance
Antidepressant medications
Hormonal birth control
Exercise and other lifestyle changes

Some types of depression, like postpartum depression and seasonal depression, tend to subside after a few months*. Still, you shouldn’t hesitate to get the help you need. Even if you only need treatment for a short time, it can greatly improve your mood and help you stay productive in your daily life.

If you need help with finding treatments for your depression, call Access Now Primary Care to schedule a telehealth appointment or book online today.

*Individual results may vary