Depression
Understanding the Signs, Causes, and the Path to Feeling Better
Depression is more than just feeling sad or having a rough day. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and function. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 21 million U.S. adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2021. Yet many people still go undiagnosed or untreated due to stigma, lack of awareness, or believing they just need to “snap out of it.”
The good news? Depression is treatable. With the right support, people can feel better and regain control of their lives.
What Is Depression?
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness, and can interfere with daily activities like work, sleep, eating, and relationships. It’s not a sign of weakness or something you can simply “get over.”
Depression can affect anyone—regardless of age, background, or life situation—and it looks different for everyone.
Common Symptoms of Depression
Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Persistent sadness, anxiety, or “empty” mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Irritability or restlessness
- Physical symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues without a clear cause
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for immediate help.
Types of Depression
Understanding the different types of depression can help guide treatment:
Diagnosis and Screening
A family physician or primary care provider can diagnose hypertension through routine blood pressure checks. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and categorized as:
Normal Weight Below 120/80 mmHg
Elevated 120-129/<80 mmHg
Stage 1 Hypertension 130-139/80-89 mmHg
Stage 2 Hypertension 140/90 mmHg or higher
Hypertensive Crisis 180/120 mmHg or higher (requires immediate medical attention)
Regular screenings are essential, especially if you have risk factors like obesity or a family history of hypertension.
Use the BMI Calculator to check your weight-related risk factors.
Treatment Options
Management plans are often personalized and may include:
Regular check-ups and consistent use of prescribed medication are essential in preventing flare-ups and hospitalization.
Inhalers (Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids)
Help open up airways and reduce inflammation.
Nebulizers
Often used for more severe cases or during flare-ups.
Medications
Long-term control medicines, leukotriene modifiers, or combination inhalers.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
A medically supervised program that combines education, exercise, and support.
Complications if Left Untreated
Uncontrolled asthma or COPD can lead to:
Supporting Weight Loss with Small Changes
Sustainable weight loss often begins with small adjustments in daily habits. Consider:
Healthy Snacking
Swap chips and sugary treats for nuts, fruits, or yogurt.
Meal Planning
Preparing healthy meals in advance can reduce the temptation of fast food.
Staying Hydrated
Drinking water before meals may reduce calorie intake.
Incorporating Movement
Simple changes like walking instead of driving short distances or using stairs instead of elevators can improve overall activity levels.
Tracking Progress
Using journals or apps to monitor food intake and activity can improve accountability.
Mental Well-being and Lung Health
Living with a chronic respiratory condition can take an emotional toll. Consider:
- Joining support groups or online communities
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation
- Getting professional counseling if anxiety or depression arises
- Educating yourself—it empowers better management
Depression Care at Our Walk-In Clinic
Our services include:
- Mental Health Evaluations and Screenings
- Personalized Therapy Referrals and Counseling
- Medication Management and Monitoring
- Lifestyle Coaching and Stress Management
- Support for Co-Occurring Conditions (like anxiety or substance use)
- Follow-up Care to Track Progress
We believe in treating the whole person; not just the symptoms and we’re here to support you on your journey toward healing.
When to Seek Help
Don’t wait until things feel unbearable. Seek help if you:
- Feel down, hopeless, or irritable most of the time
- Struggle to complete daily tasks
- Have lost interest in things you once enjoyed
- Experience changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
- Have thoughts of harming yourself or others