Depression

Depression can make it hard to find joy in your life, causing sadness, irritability, and anxiety. But you’re not alone — depression affects approximately 17.3 million American adults and 1.9 million children between ages 3 and 17. Caroline Bjorkman, DO, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC,  treats patients aged 12 and older at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Whether you’re interested in medication for depression, psychotherapy, or looking to improve your lifestyle choices, reach out by phone or online today.

What is depression?

Major depressive disorder, or depression, is a chronic disorder where feelings of sadness or hopelessness last longer than two weeks. You may be out of control of these feelings and unable to find joy or inspiration. 

Depression can come in cycles and begin at any age — improving but then returning — and can last weeks or occur across your lifetime. 

Major traumatic life events like a death in the family, injury or car accident, breakup, or financial crisis, can cause depression. Some women also suffer from depression during their pregnancy or after having a child.

What are the symptoms of depression? 

Depression can affect you mentally and physically, and signs include: 

• Persistent feelings of sadness 
• Constant hopelessness 
• Loss of interest in work, school, or hobbies
• Decreased sex drive 
• Lack of sleep or oversleeping 
• Loss of appetite 
• Change in body weight 
• Inability to focus 
• Unexplained muscle aches and pains 
• Anxiety  

Seek out immediate emergency care if you or a family member’s depression is leading to suicidal thoughts or attempts. 

What are my treatment options for depression? 

Although there is no cure for depression, many people see improvement with individualized treatments. 

Before deciding on a treatment plan, your Mind Space Wellness, LLC provider performs a thorough exam and blood tests. Certain underlying conditions like bipolar disorder, cancer, stroke, HIV, and eating disorders can lead to depression. 

Medication
Common antidepressants include Zoloft®, Lexapro®, Desyrel®, and Oleptro™. These medications change how chemicals in your brain work, altering stress levels and improving your mood. 

Antidepressants often take 4-6 weeks to show their full potential, so avoiding stopping or changing medication without first communicating with your provider is important. 

Your provider can discuss any antidepressant side effects, like decreased sex drive, fogginess, and weight loss or weight gain, before starting you on medication. 

Psychotherapy 
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are popular forms of talk therapy that alleviate depression. Your provider works with you to understand what triggers your depression and how to develop healthy thinking and behavioral patterns. 

For depression that other treatments haven’t improved, brain stimulation therapies use electricity to trigger or stop brain patterns. Your provider will discuss any risks associated with the therapy before proceeding. 

If you’re interested in compassionate depression care, call Mind Space Wellness, LLC, or reach out online today.