Depression
Depression is a serious but highly treatable medical condition that affects how you feel, think, and function. East Coast Telepsychiatry offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and evidence-based medication management for major depressive disorder via secure video visits.
The short answer
What are the symptoms of depression?
Common symptoms of depression include persistent sadness or emptiness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide. Symptoms that last at least two weeks and interfere with work, relationships, self-care, or daily life deserve a professional evaluation. Depression is treatable, and a clinician can help distinguish it from grief, bipolar depression, medication effects, medical conditions, or other causes.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Sleep changes — too much or too little
- Fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Common questions
- How can I cope with depression?
- Small, repeatable steps can help while you arrange care: keep a basic sleep and meal routine, choose one manageable activity, stay connected with a trusted person, and reduce alcohol or other substances that can worsen mood. Coping strategies do not replace evaluation or treatment. If you may hurt yourself or cannot stay safe, call or text 988, call 911, or go to an emergency department.
- How do I get medication for depression?
- Start with a psychiatric or primary-care evaluation that reviews symptoms, health history, current medications, safety, and possible bipolar symptoms. If medication is clinically appropriate, a prescriber can explain options, expected benefits, side effects, monitoring, and follow-up. A prescription is not guaranteed at a first appointment.
- How long does it take for antidepressants to work?
- Some people notice early changes in sleep, energy, or appetite before mood improves, while antidepressant benefits often build over several weeks. The timeline depends on the medication, dose, diagnosis, adherence, and the individual. Keep follow-up appointments and contact your prescriber about side effects, worsening symptoms, or safety concerns rather than stopping medication abruptly.
- Is ketamine therapy right for depression if SSRIs have not worked?
- Treatment-resistant depression requires a careful review of diagnosis, prior medication trials, therapy, medical history, safety, and current symptoms. Ketamine-based treatment may be considered in some settings, but it has specific risks, monitoring requirements, and eligibility criteria. Discuss the option with a qualified clinician who can explain alternatives and refer you to an appropriate specialized service when needed.
Written and reviewed by Amy Pharr, APRN, FPMHNP-C — Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Source: NIMH: Depression Overview