Depression Capitola

Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. The institute estimates that in 2016, 16.2 million adults in the U.S. had at least one major depressive episode, and it was especially prevalent in individuals 18-25. When it comes to depression, generally, what comes along with it are physical pains. WebMD reports that depression can cause fundamental changes in your body. For example, it can slow down your digestion and can result in stomach issues. The problem with this is that often, these physical symptoms are not connected to depression, so people don’t get help for them. They have no idea that the physical problems they experience could be caused by their mental illness.

What Causes Depression?

Depression is a complex mental health condition with multiple contributing factors. It is characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. The causes of depression can include:

• Biological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
• Genetics: A family history of depression can increase your risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
• Environmental Factors: Stressful life events, such as trauma, loss of a loved one, or financial problems, can trigger depression.
• Psychological Factors: Low self-esteem, chronic stress, and pessimistic thinking patterns.
• Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses, hormonal changes, and certain medications can contribute to the development of depression.
• Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse can worsen or lead to depression.

We Help Depression

To address depression, we start with an in-depth conversation about your symptoms, including when they began, their severity, and any factors that might be contributing to your emotional state. We'll explore your daily routine, stress levels, and past treatments or therapies.

A physical examination helps us rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be affecting your mental health. We may also use standardized questionnaires to assess the severity of your depression and identify specific areas that need attention.

Laboratory tests are suggested to check for hormonal imbalances or other physical conditions influencing your mood. Our primary focus is understanding the full scope of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. If depression is preventing you from living fully, contact us at (831) 200-0880 to book a consultation and start your journey to recovery.