Depression

More than 8% of adults in the United States struggle with depression, described as constant or extreme sadness. At Avant Medical Consulting in Dublin, Ohio, board-certified psychiatrist Jordan Spellman, MD, offers depression treatments that boost your mood, helping you to live a more fulfilling life. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Spellman by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is depression?

Depression is a common mental health disorder that may be ongoing or appear during certain times of the year (seasonal depression). 

While nearly everyone feels sad from time to time, clinical depression can become severe, negatively impact your quality of life, or become dangerous in severe cases. Seeking treatment offers symptom relief, boosting your mood to rediscover joy. 

Which symptoms can depression cause?

Depression can lead to the following symptoms:

• Feeling helpless, hopeless, or worthless
• Loss of interest in favorite things
• Ongoing or intense sadness
• Changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or weight
• Thoughts of suicide
• Fatigue
• Physical aches and pains
• Difficulty concentrating

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes depression cycled with euphoria (extreme happiness). Postpartum depression appears in some women after they have babies.

It’s common to have an anxiety disorder along with depression. 

What may increase the risk of depression?

Depression may develop because of:

• Genetics (family history of depression)
• Brain changes
• Having another mental health disorder
• Loss of a loved one
• Physical health concerns, such as a chronic disease or ongoing pain
• Lack of a strong social support network
• Financial challenges
• Abuse or neglect
• Being bullied
• Having few or no friends 
• Ongoing or extreme stress
• Substance misuse
• Certain medications

The cause of depression isn’t always clear. It may be constant without treatment or come and go.

How is depression diagnosed?

Dr. Spellman completes a comprehensive consultation and medical review to determine if you suffer from depression or another mental health condition. He uses DSM-5 criteria to discuss your emotions, moods, behaviors, and thoughts. He asks about your medications, lifestyle habits, and goals to tailor a solution offering lasting depression relief.

How is depression treated?

Your customized depression treatment plan at Avant Medical Consulting may consist of taking medications, completing psychotherapy, undergoing transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), or making healthy lifestyle modifications. 

Dr. Spellman offers cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy to alter thought and behavior patterns. He follows up to ensure lasting relief and a better quality of life. Dr. Spellman also provides emergency psychiatry for urgent mental health care needs. 

To optimize your results, consider getting 7-9 hours of sleep, managing stress, staying active, and eating nutritious foods. Avoid drugs and alcohol and seek treatment for any addictions. 

Schedule a depression evaluation at Avant Medical Consulting by calling the office or using the online booking tab today.