Depression

You are not alone

What Causes Depression?

Depression can be situational – brought about in response to life changes and stressors like grief, loss, a big move, a stressful job, or family conflict. But depression can also have a genetic or biological cause. That’s why at McLean Counseling Center, we often pair psychological treatments for depression with medical interventions to complement one another.

Clinical depression usually lasts for several weeks or months and can interfere with daily functioning. At times, symptoms can be significant enough to be noticeable by others.

Symptoms of Depression

• Feeling depressed
• Irritability
• Low energy levels
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Difficulty concentrating
• Appetite changes (eating too much or too little)
• Impaired cognition (thinking or moving slowly)

The good news is there’s hope

At McLean Counseling Center, we take a comprehensive and customized approach to treating depression. When working with a new patient, we explore and identify events or patterns that may contribute to their depression. Taking each individual’s case into consideration, we work with the patient to set realistic goals to enhance their emotional well-being. By providing concrete tools, patients can help prevent relapse or worsening symptoms.

Our practitioners also assess the need for medication and help patients find the right medication if necessary. Our expertise in psychopharmacology allows for careful, conservative medication interventions that focus on easing symptoms to produce optimal outcomes.

We also work with patients to optimize sleep quality and daytime function. With a three- pronged treatment plan (therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes), we give our patients the tools they need to take control of their life, feel present, and find joy.