Psychiatric Care for Depression

Many people experience brief, occasional periods of what they might describe as “depression” throughout their lives. In reality, feelings of sadness or loss of interest in activities are common and normal for many individuals, who do not meet the criteria for a clinical depressive disorder. What sets these experiences apart from diagnosed clinical depression is the severity, duration, and the significant negative effect these symptoms have on a person’s daily functioning.

Unlike occasional sadness, clinical depressive disorders tend to persist longer, have greater intensity, and cause substantial disruption to a person’s personal life, work, physical health, and relationships. When mood disturbances reach this level of impact, consulting a depression psychiatrist or mental health professional can be highly beneficial.

What Are The Symptoms of Depression?

A Major Depressive Episode is primarily characterized by either 1) a depressed mood for most of the day, nearly every day, or 2) a marked loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities for most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more.

Other symptoms often associated with depression include:

• Noticeable weight gain or loss, or changes in appetite
• Sleep disturbances such as insomnia or hypersomnia
• Slowed movements or speech
• Persistent low energy or fatigue
• Feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or shame
• Difficulty concentrating and indecisiveness
• Recurrent thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm

If you experience suicidal thoughts, immediate assistance is critical. Reach out by calling 988 or visit your nearest emergency room.

Types of Depression & Depressive Disorders

• Major Depressive Disorder: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), or major depression, involves a depressed mood or loss of interest in most activities nearly every day for at least two weeks, often longer. Along with these core symptoms, there must be significant impairment in daily functioning, including issues with sleep, energy, concentration, self-esteem, or suicidal ideation.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder: Also known as dysthymia, Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) is a chronic, less intense form of depression lasting for at least two years. Symptoms include low mood, appetite and sleep changes, low energy, poor self-esteem, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms interfere with daily life and well-being.
• Postpartum Depression: Postpartum depression occurs during pregnancy or within months after childbirth and involves major depressive symptoms that go beyond typical “baby blues.” This condition severely affects mood and interest in activities, impairing new mothers’ ability to function normally.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically worsening in the fall and winter and improving during spring and summer months.
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome marked by intense mood swings, irritability, depression, and anxiety. These symptoms improve shortly after menstruation begins and disappear during the rest of the cycle.
• Perimenopausal Depression: Some women experience significant emotional distress during perimenopause, especially those with a history of depression. Symptoms may mirror major depressive disorder and should be evaluated by a depression psychiatrist to determine appropriate treatment.
• Depression in Children: Depression is often underdiagnosed in children and adolescents, who may struggle to express their feelings. It can occur despite a supportive environment and requires professional evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment by a child and adolescent psychiatrist are essential to reduce long-term impacts.

How Does Fine Tune Psychiatry Treat Depression?

Your First Visit for Depression

During your first appointment at Fine Tune Psychiatry, a provider will carefully review your symptoms, medical and mental health history, and treatment goals. This evaluation helps form an initial diagnosis and guides the development of a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or both.

Our team includes psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners, all dedicated to finding the best approach for your unique needs.

Therapy

Our clinicians can incorporate psychotherapy into their sessions as needed. This includes using Supportive therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Exposure Therapy and Accountability for healthy behaviors and routines (diet, exercise, and avoidance of problematic behaviors).

If a patient requires more intensive or focused therapy, our psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners will make recommendations for psychologists and therapists in your area, and will collaborate with them to provide coordinated care.

Medication Management

For moderate to severe depression, combining medication with therapy often delivers the best outcomes. However, treatment is individualized and may vary based on patient preferences, medical history, and symptom severity. Common antidepressants include Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors ( SNRIs), Wellbutrin, and Trintellix. Tri-cyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) are used less frequently but can be options. Medication effectiveness and side effects are closely monitored over time.

If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, consulting a depression psychiatrist can be the first step toward recovery and improved quality of life.

How to Choose a Depression Treatment Provider

Finding a qualified depression psychiatrist near you can seem challenging, but several strategies can help:

• Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations.
• Contact local hospitals and teaching institutions for their referrals.
• Check with your insurance provider for covered psychiatrists specializing in depression.
• Search online directories for psychiatrists with expertise in mood disorders.
• Seek recommendations from family or friends who have experience with local depression specialists.
• Explore national mental health resources for guidance on treatment options.

Start Your Depression Treatment with Fine Tune Psychiatry Today

• Appointments typically available within 2-3 weeks
• Expert providers trained at Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania, and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)
• Providers engaged in academia and teaching
• Comprehensive, holistic care addressing the whole person, not just symptoms
• Coordination with your psychologists and other medical providers
• Most major Insurance plans accepted.
• Initial visits lasting 60 minutes; follow-ups 20-30 minutes