Depression

Depression services offered in Lanham, MD and Washington, DC

If ongoing sadness and lethargy seem to follow you, you may be one of the 21 million American adults with depression. For evidence-based, personalized care, you can rely on the team of skilled providers at Chivic Healthcare Services, a mental health and wellness clinic in Lanham, Maryland, and Washington, DC. They offer effective treatment to ease the symptoms of your depression and restore your quality of life. Learn more by calling the office or booking your appointment online today.

Depression Q&A

What is depression?

While some may think of depression as just a form of sadness, it is much more than that. Depression is a serious mental health condition causing prolonged sadness and lethargy that should be carefully and compassionately addressed; fortunately, the Chivic Healthcare Services team can provide expert care.

What are the usual symptoms of depression?

There are many symptoms that can indicate you have depression, and your symptoms may be very similar or completely different from someone else’s. Common symptoms include:

Feeling worthless
Difficulty concentrating
Withdrawing socially
Constant fatigue
Losing interest in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed
Appetite changes like overeating or undereating
Suicidal ideations
Persistent sadness
Physical symptoms that you can’t explain, such as digestive problems, headaches, or sleep issues

People with depression may also be vulnerable to substance abuse to cope with the persistent feelings of sadness. No matter how dark things appear right now, your provider can help you get started finding the light at the end of the tunnel.

Does depression have a specific cause?

Depression can stem from a variety of factors, and you may be more vulnerable to it if you relate to one (or more than one) of the following:

Environmental factors

Being raised in a violent, abusive, or insecure environment can increase your risk of developing depression while you are young or later in life.

Biological factors

There may be a genetic component to depression, so if you have close relatives who suffer from depression, it’s important to prioritize habits and activities that support your mental health.

Medical conditions

Our minds are inevitably influenced by the health of our bodies, and chronic illnesses, hormonal imbalances, or lingering pain can trigger depression or worsen it.

Psychological factors

Chronic stress, surviving trauma, or lingering self-esteem issues can make it more likely for you to develop depression.

What can I expect from my depression treatment?

You’ll first have a thorough mental health assessment at Chivic Healthcare Services so your provider can have a clear picture of your struggles and goals for the future. They may recommend a combination of treatments for your personalized plan.

Your care plan may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), lifestyle changes, stress reduction, or medication to manage your symptoms and reintroduce lasting joy to your life.

To learn more about depression management, call the Chivic Healthcare Services office or book an appointment online today.