Depression

Depression is a serious mood disorder that pervades every aspect of your life, from sleeping and eating habits to your ability to enjoy friends and family. Danielle Damas, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BC-NP, based in Franklin Square, New York, provides personalized care for depression, creating a treatment plan based on your unique mental health needs. Though it’s hard to reach out for help when you’re depressed, it’s easier at her practice, Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC, because your depression care is available through telemedicine. Call the office or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment today.

What causes depression?

Depression is a complex disorder. The condition has many possible causes and can develop without an obvious cause. It seldom improves on its own and without treatment and can last months or years.

Depression often arises during life transitions. For example, losing your job, moving to a new location, separating from your partner, or experiencing the death of a loved one can all lead to depression.

Daily stressors and chronic diseases often cause depression. You’re more likely to become depressed if others in your family struggle with the condition.

Depression is also related to an imbalance in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that regulate moods. Low neurotransmitter levels can trigger depression without an obvious external cause. And even when a life event leads to depression, imbalanced neurotransmitters can prolong your low mood.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Every person experiences depression differently. Your symptoms may be mild, or your depression may be debilitating, making it impossible to function. 

No matter how severe your symptoms may be, depression causes several of the following:

• Feeling sad, hopeless, and/or worthless
• Losing interest in activities you usually enjoy
• Gaining or losing weight
• Eating more or less than usual
• Having insomnia or sleeping too much
• Feeling fatigued or having no energy
• Being unable to concentrate
• Having restless, aimless, repetitive movements or moving slowly
• Thinking about death or suicide

If your depression lasts two weeks or longer, it’s time to seek help at Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC. 

How is depression treated?

Your treatment depends on variables like the cause of your depression (if one can be identified) and the severity of your symptoms. People with moderate to severe depression often need antidepressants to balance their brain chemicals, improve their mood, and make it easier to participate in talk therapy.

Therapy can improve many issues associated with depression. For example, you may learn ways to cope with life challenges, get support for a life event, learn to improve negative thoughts, and gain new skills for preventing depression.

If your depression goes hand in hand with insomnia, a problem affecting 80%-90% of people with depression, your Danielle Damas Psychiatric NP, PC provider also provides the treatment you need to regain a healthy night’s sleep. 

Don’t wait to seek help for depression. Call Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC, or request a telemedicine appointment online today.