Depression
Millions of Americans, regardless of age, experience the challenges of living with depression. At Inside Out in Princeton, New Jersey, Dr. Zeshan is dedicated to helping you navigate this difficult journey. With compassionate care, Dr. Z diagnoses depression and creates personalized treatment plans tailored to alleviate your symptoms and enhance your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Reach out to Inside Out today by calling us or scheduling an appointment online. For your convenience, telemedicine appointments are also available.
Depression Q + A
What is depression?
Depression is a mood disorder that causes long-lasting feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair, and can interfere with many aspects of your life. In addition to creating negative emotions, it also changes your behavior and triggers withdrawal from friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities.
Abnormal neurotransmitter activity in the region of your brain that regulates your mood causes depression. It may or may not have an identifiable trigger. Fortunately, Dr. Z can treat depression and restore your health and quality of life.
What are the risk factors for depression?
Your risk of developing depression increases if you have a personal or family history of depression or other mental health issues. Additionally, poverty, neglect, or abuse can increase your chances of developing depression. Many patients also struggle with depression as a side effect of another health problem, such as chronic pain, cancer, or heart problems.
When should I talk to a provider about depression?
While everyone feels sad or experiences grief occasionally, depression symptoms persist for at least two weeks, and in some cases, months or years. Some of the warning signs of depression include:
- Feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or worthless
- Lost interest in activities
- Social withdrawal
- Increased irritability
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Reduced concentration and decision making
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If any of these symptoms sound familiar or you feel like depression symptoms are interfering with your life, call Inside Out for diagnosis and treatment.
How is depression treated?
At Inside Out, Dr. provides personalized treatment plans to alleviate symptoms and help you recover from depression. He begins with an assessment to get to know you, your symptoms, and your medical history. Then, he creates a customized treatment plan to meet your needs.
Generally, treatment for depression combines medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications to enhance your mood and overall health. Antidepressant medications can regulate your brain chemistry and alleviate many of your symptoms.
During therapy, you explore your thoughts and feelings and learn coping techniques. For example, mindfulness-based therapy helps you focus on the present moment instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
Your provider might also recommend that you adjust your diet or exercise habits, create a bedtime routine to help you sleep, or keep a journal. Some patients find that practicing yoga or meditation helps reduce their symptoms.
If you’re concerned about depression, call Inside Out or schedule an appointment online today.
