Depression

How do I know if I have depression?

Your primary care provider or a mental health professional can determine if you have depression after a comprehensive evaluation. Depression is a serious mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness that affect how you think and behave.

Other symptoms you may have with depression include:

• Low energy
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Little interest in activities
• Brain fog
• Anxiety
• Hopelessness or helplessness
• Shame or guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Aches and pains that have no physical cause

If you’ve been feeling sad for two or more weeks and your sadness is making it hard for you to engage in your usual routine, then it’s time to reach out for help. 

What causes depression?

There’s no single known cause of depression. Researchers believe that the mood disorder develops from multiple factors, but it’s theorized that your genetics and environment may make you more susceptible to developing depression.

Depression affects people of all ages and may occur with a chronic illness or a major life change. A hormonal imbalance or nutritional deficiency may also cause depression. 

What happens during an evaluation for depression?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation of your depression from the functional medicine team at Arbor Vitae Holistic Medical Center. They aim to find the root cause of your mood change so they can create a plan that helps you feel better.

Your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, daily routine, medical history, and family history. They perform a physical exam and run lab work to look for objective data that may help pinpoint the underlying cause of your depression or conditions contributing to your mood change.

What treatments can help my depression?

The team at Arbor Vitae Holistic Medical Center takes a holistic approach. They partner with you, providing the tools, support, and guidance necessary to empower you to take control of your health.

Depression treatment at Arbor Vitae Holistic Medical Center may include:

• Nutrition therapy
• Nutritional supplements
• A personalized exercise program
• Stress management
• Hormone therapy
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Health coaching

Your provider at Arbor Vitae Holistic Medical Center schedules regular follow-up visits to monitor your symptoms and help you create the lifestyle changes that benefit your emotional and physical well-being. 

For a holistic approach to depression, call Arbor Vitae Holistic Medical Center today or click the online booking button.