Depression

Depression affects about 10% of Americans and has now reached epidemic levels in the United States. At Kema Health Services, compassionate board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Josyane Kengni, PMHNP, and the other specialists believe that mental health is a core component of your overall well-being. They are available to help you understand and manage your depression so you can enjoy a good quality of life. Appointments are available in the Frederick, Maryland, office and through telehealth anywhere in Maryland. Call the office or click the online scheduling feature now.

What is the difference between sadness and depression? 

Occasional sadness is a normal part of life. But, sometimes, the sadness persists longer than expected. 

When sadness doesn’t naturally start to lighten within a few weeks, or when your mood doesn’t fluctuate, it might be more than sadness: You could have depression. 

While sadness is an emotion, depression is a mental health disorder. Mental health experts typically diagnose depression when symptoms last at least two weeks and disrupt normal day-to-day activities.  

What are the most common depression symptoms?

Depression can cause a broad range of symptoms and may affect everyone differently. Some of the most common depression symptoms include: 

• Sadness that persists most or all of the day on most or all days
• Loss of interest in things you usually enjoy
• Lack of energy
• Irritability
• Inability to concentrate
• Feelings of guilt
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Frequent thoughts about death, possibly with suicidal ideation
• Sleep habit changes (insomnia or sleeping far more than usual)
• Eating habit changes

These symptoms aren’t exclusive to depression. Other mental health disorders, like bipolar II disorder, feature long episodes of a depressed mood as well. Kema Health Services can assess your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and recommend an ideal treatment approach.

What treatments help with depression?

Depression treatment usually includes two approaches: psychotherapy and medication.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is mental health care provided by a psychiatry expert. There are many psychotherapy approaches, but generally, the main focuses are identifying the factors leading to depression and helping you recognize and change unhealthy thought patterns.  

Medication

Medication is often combined with psychotherapy to provide a complete approach for patients with depression. The most common depression drugs are antidepressants, which increase the activity of certain neurotransmitters (brain chemicals). This helps balance neurotransmitters and relieves the symptoms of depression. 

Alternative treatment options, such as medical marijuana, may also be available. 

Depression and anxiety often occur together, and you can treat them together as well — for example, many people with depression and anxiety experience dramatic symptom relief by combining antidepressants and psychotherapy. 

If you’re struggling with depression, seeking help is an important first step. Kema Health Services provides compassionate care via in-office visits and telehealth. Call the office or schedule your appointment online now.