Adult Depression Treatment in Houston, Texas
We all experience sadness or mild feelings of helplessness or hopelessness during certain times in our lives, such as a death, chronic illness or major life change. When these feelings become debilitating and continue for an extended period of time with no relief, a trained professional may diagnose depression, also known as major depressive disorder. Dr. Kathleen Yen, a board certified depression psychiatrist, specializes in this mental health condition and is available to provide adult depression treatment in Houston, Texas with a focus in depression medication and psychotherapy (talk therapy).
How a Depression Psychiatrist Diagnoses the Condition
Depression impacts millions of Americans each and every year. It is a serious mental health condition that causes pain and suffering to the individual experiencing the symptoms, as well as to his or her loved ones.
Depression simply cannot go away without proper treatment from a depression psychiatrist or other trained professional. Without treatment, the condition can ruin relationships, lead to job loss and cause years of guilt, worthlessness, sleep disturbances and lack of energy.
Although depression and its related symptoms may occur only one time, the condition commonly occurs in multiple episodes. Common symptoms include:
- Feelings of hopelessness, sadness and emptiness
- Anger and frustration
- Anxiety and agitation
- Trouble thinking and making decisions
- Sleep disturbances and loss of energy
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Suicidal thoughts and/or suicide attempts
An early diagnosis by a depression psychiatrist is critical. The condition is diagnosed by Dr. Yen after talking with the individual, asking specific questions, and evaluating symptoms and behavior patterns.
Depression Medication and Other Adult Depression Treatments
Many people wonder if depression medication is the only treatment option. The answer is no. Dr. Yen also utilizes talk therapy in order to address incorrect and automatic thoughts that an individual suffering from depression holds deep in his or her core beliefs. A trained professional has the ability to use psychotherapy to shed light and insight into a depressed person’s life and guide him or her down the correct path of thinking.
If psychotherapy does not eliminate symptoms, or if an individual has suicidal thoughts, depression medication may be necessary. Medication as an adult depression treatment in patients does not eliminate all issues, but it does typically improve symptoms and boost overall mood. Before beginning any depression medication, Dr. Yen will discuss all of the pros and cons of each medication option with patients on an individual basis.
If you believe you require adult depression treatment in the Houston, Texas area, please contact the office of Dr. Kathleen Yen, board certified depression psychiatrist, to discuss the options of talk therapy and depression medication in more detail.