Depression affects more than 17 million adults in the United States every year. The serious mood disorder affects how you feel, think, and behave. When you’re suffering with depression, you may feel all hope is lost, but the experienced team of primary care providers at Schwartz Medical Group, led by Melvin J. Schwartz, MD, can provide the care you need to help you feel more like your usual self. To get help, call the office in Norwood, Massachusetts, or book an appointment online today.
Depression is a mental health condition that affects your mood. It causes ongoing feelings of sadness that affect how you think and behave. Depression may affect your physical and emotional well-being and make it hard for you to manage your day-to-day responsibilities.
Depression is common and may occur at any age, but it most often develops in adulthood. It often co-occurs in adults struggling with other health issues like diabetes or heart disease.
Getting an early diagnosis and treatment plan in place for your depression may help you feel better faster.
Depression symptoms vary in type and severity. However, when you’re struggling with depression, your symptoms occur on a daily basis for two or more weeks.
Common symptoms of depression include:
You don’t have to experience every symptom to be diagnosed with depression. And, even if your symptoms are intermittent, treatment can help.
When you visit Schwartz Medical Group with concerns about depression, your primary care provider conducts an in-depth evaluation to diagnose your mood disorder.
During your exam, your provider reviews your symptoms, medical and mental health histories, and your family history. They perform a physical and cognitive exam and run lab work to rule out a medical condition that may explain your low mood.
Your primary care provider at Schwartz Medical Group develops a personalized treatment plan for your depression based on the severity of your symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences.
Treatment for depression may include a combination of antidepressants and psychotherapy. The team at Schwartz Medical Group also includes certifying providers for the state Medical Use of Marijuana Program.
If you’re experiencing debilitating symptoms from your depression, you may qualify for the medical marijuana program.
The earlier you start treatment for your depression, the more effective it is. Call Schwartz Medical Group or book an appointment online today.
