About Depression
Understand the Mental Health Condition that Hurts Many
Depression results in a persistent state of sadness or loss of interest or pleasure which interferes with an individual’s thoughts, behavior, mood and physical health and is often a debilitating disorder. Depression is a serious medical illness. It’s estimated that 21 million American adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2020.* If you think depression may be affecting you or a loved one, it may be helpful to learn more about depression symptoms.
It's estimated that 21 million American adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2020.*
Signs of Depression
Here’s what to look for when you or someone you care about might have depression:
- Constant low mood
- Lack of energy or always fatigued
- Loss of once-loved hobbies or interests
- Feeling worthless
- Difficulties concentrating
- Thoughts of hurting yourself
Causes of Depression
What is the cause of depression? The exact cause is unknown. The leading scientific theory is that depression is caused by decreased activity in the neural networks of the brain that regulate emotion and motivation. Neurotransmitters act as chemical messengers that send signals between brain cells. Increasing the brain’s level of neurotransmitters has been found to reactivate neural networks and create new networks in those with depression. Depression is most often treated with antidepressant medications that increase the levels of these neurotransmitters.
If Depression Medication Doesn’t Work for You, TMS Might Be the Answer
Unfortunately, more than 4 million patients do not receive adequate benefit from antidepressants and/or cannot tolerate the side effects caused by them. DiscoveryMD is dedicated to fighting depression and helping these patients find a new way back. With groundbreaking treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, patients have been able to achieve remission from depression without any of the typical side effects of other depression treatments. TMS is medication free, safe and effective and is covered by most insurances. Alongside TMS, we have an array of treatments that can help you finally heal from persistent depression.
* National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (2023). Major depression statistics.
Get Help for Depression
Wondering if depression is what you’re experiencing or have a concern about a loved one? Get started by contacting us immediately, whether by phone or the form below.