Depression

Mark DeLuca, MD

General Psychiatrist & Forensic Psychiatrists located in Royal Palm Beach, FL & Palm Beach, FL

Depression is a common condition, but many people forget that the condition is complex and causes severe symptoms in some people. With offices in Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach, and Juno Beach, Florida, board-certified psychiatrist Mark DeLuca, MD, and certified physician assistant Dane Santoro, PA-C, offer compassionate care for people with depression. They can help you manage your symptoms through therapy, medications, and lifestyle recommendations. Don’t wait to seek help, call the nearest office to schedule an appointment or book online today.

Depression Q&A

What is depression?

Many people think that depression is the same thing as having “the blues.” However, the blues often goes away, while depression tends to linger. You can have a mild case of depression, or major depressive disorder (MDD). Your symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Losing a job, going through a breakup, moving, or having a major life transition are often causes of depression. But constant stress, managing a chronic illness, or grieving can also lead to depression. You might become depressed without a clear cause as well.

While the cause of depression is complex, scientists often link depression to an imbalance in neurotransmitters (brain chemicals).

Without proper treatment, you can feel depressed for several weeks or longer. At the offices of Marc DeLuca, MD, the team provides you with all the support you need to overcome depression and improve your quality of life.

What symptoms does depression cause?

Depression causes symptoms such as:

Feeling sad and hopeless
Feeling anxious or nervous
Avoiding loved ones
Losing interest in your favorite activities
Avoiding responsibilities
Eating too little or too much
Struggling to sleep well
Having a hard time making decisions or focusing

If your symptoms last for more than two weeks, it’s important to seek help for depression.

How is depression treated?

To treat depression, the team recommends therapy, medication, or a combination of both. However, depending on the severity of your condition and the cause of depression, they customize your plan to meet your treatment goals.

The team may use different therapeutic approaches to help improve your condition. For example, they can help you recognize negative thought patterns and learn new coping skills to handle difficult thoughts and situations.

Medications also benefit many people with depression. Antidepressants can help balance brain chemicals to relieve symptoms. Exploring your thoughts during therapy sessions might also benefit your mood and outlook.

The team can recommend lifestyle changes as well. Some people may benefit from improving their nutrition to produce brain chemicals. Getting regular exercise might also help support a positive mood.

If you’re going through depression, don’t wait to seek treatment. Call Mark DeLuca, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.

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