Depressive Disorder
What is Depression Disorder?
Depression (commonly known as major depressive disorder) is a mental health disorder affecting your mood and ability to function. It can affect how a person feels, thinks, or behaves and can also cause physical symptoms, for instance, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, and aches or pains. It can make everyday tasks feel harder and take away interest in things you once enjoyed.
Types of Depression
Major Depressive Disorder
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), or clinical depression, is the most common and severe type of depression. It involves persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, sleep and appetite changes, and possible thoughts of self-harm lasting at least two weeks. Symptoms significantly impact daily life. People may experience single or recurring episodes.
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), formerly called dysthymia, is a long-term form of depression. Symptoms—such as low mood, poor appetite or overeating, sleep problems, low energy, low self-esteem, difficulty concentrating, and hopelessness—persist for at least two years in adults (one year for youth). Though less intense than major depression, it causes ongoing emotional low‑grade distress and impairs daily life over time.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression tied to seasonal changes, most often beginning in fall and winter when daylight is reduced. People may experience low energy, oversleeping, weight gain, loss of interest, moodiness, and social withdrawal. Symptoms typically resolve in spring or summer. SAD can disrupt daily functioning.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is a serious mood disorder that affects women after childbirth. It goes beyond the typical “baby blues” and includes symptoms like deep sadness, anxiety, exhaustion, irritability, difficulty bonding with the baby, and changes in sleep or appetite. These feelings can interfere with a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby. It often requires professional treatment through therapy, support, and sometimes medication to feel better.
Bipolar Depression
Bipolar depression is part of bipolar disorder, a condition marked by extreme mood swings. During depressive episodes, people may feel hopeless, tired, withdrawn, and lose interest in things they once enjoyed. Unlike major depression, bipolar disorder also includes manic or hypomanic episodes with high energy or risky behavior.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes intense mood symptoms before a woman’s period. These may include depression, irritability, mood swings, anger, and feeling overwhelmed or hopeless. Physical symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness can also occur. PMDD disrupts daily life and relationships, unlike mild PMS.
There are things that can help reduce the risk of depression and protect your mental health. One of the most important steps is staying connected with people you trust. Talking to friends or family members regularly, even when you don’t feel like it, can help you feel supported and less alone.
Another helpful habit is maintaining a regular routine. Getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and moving your body through exercise can all have a positive impact on your mood. Exercise, in particular, is known to release chemicals in the brain that boost your sense of well-being.
It’s also important to manage stress before it becomes overwhelming. Learning simple coping strategies, like deep breathing or journaling, can help you feel more in control. Avoiding alcohol and drugs also plays a big role, while they might seem to provide relief in the short term, they often make depression worse over time.
Lastly, taking care of your emotional health early on can go a long way. If you start noticing signs of sadness, low energy, or withdrawal from things you usually enjoy, reaching out for help early—whether to a loved one or a mental health professional—can prevent those feelings from growing into something more serious.
Remember, there’s no single solution to depression. However, by working on yourself, you can fight it better.
Psychiatric Evaluation
Our journey together begins with a thorough psychiatric evaluation. This assessment helps us understand your specific symptoms and any co-occurring conditions. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of your mental health, we can develop a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs.
Medication Management
Medication can be a crucial component of Depression treatment. Our team will work closely with you to determine the most effective medication and dosage, continuously monitoring and adjusting as necessary to optimize your treatment outcomes and minimize potential side effects.
Therapy
Therapy can be highly beneficial for Depression treatment. Through counseling, we help you explore your thoughts and feelings, develop healthy coping tools, and build emotional strength. Therapy also helps you manage stress and negative thinking patterns.
Telepsychiatry Appointments
We offer telepsychiatry appointments to provide flexible and convenient access to care. Whether you’re at home or on the go, our virtual appointments ensure you have access to our services at a time and place that suits your schedule, maintaining continuity of care.
Support for Teens
Teen depression can look different from adult depression. We offer services tailored to teenagers and their unique emotional and developmental needs. We also support families by helping them understand and support their child.
Ongoing Support & Monitoring
Depression treatment is an ongoing process, and we are committed to providing continuous support. Regular follow-ups and monitoring allow us to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Our goal is to empower you to manage your Depression effectively and achieve your personal and professional goals.
Why Choose NB Psychiatry for Care?
Personalized Approach
We know that everyone is unique, and that includes their treatment needs. We make special plans just for you. We consider your individual challenges, goals, and situation to help you heal in the best way.
Caring Place
Our practice is a kind and safe place. We want everyone to feel listened to, important, and supported as they go through their journey. Our goal is to help every person feel comfortable sharing their feelings and worries.
Keeping Your Information Safe
Your privacy is very important to us. We work hard to keep your personal information safe, so you can feel happy and secure when you talk to us.
Experienced, Board-Certified Psychiatrist
Dr. Nibras is the best doctor who helps people with their feelings and minds. He has helped many people for a long time and knows a lot about how to make them feel better. You can trust him to help you get the care you need!
Private, Judgment-Free Care
We offer private, judgment-free care, ensuring that you receive direct and confidential support.
Timely Appointments
We know it’s important to get care quickly. That’s why we offer appointments in just a few days, not weeks, so you can start feeling better without waiting too long.
Conveniently Available
We are proud to help people in the Sugar Land, Katy, and Houston areas. You can come to see us in person or talk to us online, whichever you like best!
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FAQs
1. What is depression?
Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and function. It goes beyond feeling sad and can cause a loss of interest in daily activities, low energy, sleep issues, and feelings of hopelessness.
2. Is depression treatable?
Yes, depression is treatable. Most people feel better with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Lifestyle changes and support from loved ones can also help a lot.
3. Can teens and children have depression too?
Yes, depression can affect people of all ages, including kids and teens. It may look different than in adults—like irritability, anger, or changes in school performance.
4. Do I need medication for depression?
Not always. Some people improve with therapy alone, while others need medication to feel better. A doctor or psychiatrist can help decide what works best for you.