Depression treatment: Rediscover joy with expert help

Our team helps people with depression all the time. We understand that simply making an appointment can feel daunting. Know that we’re happy to help and easy to reach. You can book online, text us, and meet your psychiatrist from the comfort of your home.

Overview

Symptoms

Causes

Treatments

Key facts

Depression is one of the the most common mental illness and also a symptom of several other disorders.
Many people experience depression and anxiety at the same time.
Antidepressant medication and therapy can alleviate symptoms.

What is depression?

Depression is a deep sadness or hopelessness that lasts for days or longer. It disrupts daily life and can lead to physical symptoms like pain, weight changes, sleep problems, or low energy.

Here are some common types of depression:

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is when you feel really down for at least two weeks straight, and it affects everything you do.
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) is like a low-grade sadness that sticks around for two years or more, often without being as intense as major depression.
Bipolar disorder is when you experience both low moods and high-energy episodes, swinging between feeling really low and then really high.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) hits during certain times of the year, usually in the winter, when the days are shorter and there’s less sunlight.
Postpartum depression can affect new moms after giving birth, making it hard for them to bond with their babies or take care of themselves.
Psychotic depression combines major depression with things like hallucinations or delusions, making it tough to distinguish what’s real.
Atypical depression can lift temporarily with good news or happy events, but it also brings on increased appetite and sleepiness.

If you think you might have depression, don’t worry. Help is available, starting with seeing a psychiatric care provider who can evaluate your symptoms and work with you on a treatment plan. Teaming up with a professional can empower you to live your best life.

14.6%

of youth (ages 12-17) are struggling with severe depression. (MHA)

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression can feel like a heavy cloud that darkens every aspect of life. You might wake up each day overwhelmed by sadness or emptiness, struggling to find joy in activities that once made you happy.

It can feel isolating, and physical symptoms can make it even harder to cope. Thankfully, you are not alone, and support is available.

Depression symptoms include:

Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Easily irritated or angry over small things
Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
Sleep struggles, like insomnia or oversleeping
Constant fatigue, even with little effort
Changes in appetite, leading to weight changes
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide

To be diagnosed with depression, several persistent symptoms beyond just low mood are typically required. However, even if you’re experiencing only a few symptoms, treatment can still be beneficial. Remember that symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, both in severity and duration.

If you’re noticing signs of depression that don’t seem to go away, it’s important to talk to a mental health professional.

Text us anytime!

(913) 359-0000

We make it easy to schedule your appointments, and if you need anything between visits, your provider is just a message away!

What causes depression?

The exact cause of depression isn’t clear, but it likely comes from a mix of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Here are some things that might increase your chances of feeling depressed:

Family history of depression
Experiencing trauma or stressful events, like abuse or losing someone
Major life changes, even positive ones
Health issues like cancer, stroke, or chronic pain
Certain medications
Using alcohol or drugs

More women than men are diagnosed with depression, and members of the LGBTQ+ community also experience higher rates of depression.

Psychiatry vs. therapy

Your mental health team is here to support you in different ways.

Psychiatrist

Therapist

Medical professional

Manages medications

Supports you in difficult times

Focuses on talk therapy

What treatments help with depression?

To manage depression, you first need an accurate diagnosis from a trusted mental health expert, like the psychiatrists at Silver Arrow Psychiatric Care. You can schedule a same-day appointment, all from the comfort of your own home.

Getting treatment for depression can really help ease your symptoms and make those tough times shorter.

In addition to therapy, medications can really help with depression. Antidepressants may improve your mood and coping skills. Remember, it might take some time to find the best medication and dosage, so be patient.

New medications like intranasal esketamine (Spravato) can work quickly to relieve depression, especially for those who haven’t found relief with other treatments.

If psychotherapy and medication aren’t working, brain stimulation therapies may be an option.

People with severe depression may need a hospital stay or an outpatient treatment program.

Seeing a psychiatrist can help you understand how to manage your depression effectively so that you can start feeling better.

How it works

Schedule a video assessment

Choose a time that works for you. Our providers are often available within a day or two.

Get your diagnosis and prescription

Your psychiatrist will listen to your concerns, assess your symptoms, and if necessary, prescribe medication.

Start your treatment

Pick up your medicine. You’ll have regular follow-up visits to monitor your progress, and in the meantime, message your provider anytime.

3 quick strategies for depression relief

Talk to a friend or family member about how you’re feeling.
Set small, manageable goals so that tasks feel less overwhelming.
A little exercise, even a short walk, can boost your mood.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek help right now. Call or text 988 for the free Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or go to a hospital emergency room. You are not alone. Support is available.

About Silver Arrow Psychiatric Care

Our psychiatry practice provides in-network care to adults and children across Kansas and Missouri. We treat people with a range of mental health conditions through virtual and in-person appointments, usually with same-day availability.

Ready to get the help you deserve?

David Willey, MD

Patrick Wambugu, PMHNP-BC

Nghia Nguyen, PMHNP-BC