Depression

If you feel persistently down, overwhelmed, or no longer enjoy things you once loved, support is available at HC Mental Health & Wellness in Florida, or DC. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Hawley Campbell, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides personalized depression treatment to help you feel more like yourself again. Schedule a telehealth evaluation by calling the office or booking online today.

What is depression?

Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and function in your daily life. It can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness and may make it difficult to work, maintain relationships, or take care of everyday responsibilities. Depression is a medical condition, not a personal weakness, but it can be treated with the right support and care.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Fatigue or low energy
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Irritability
• Feeling hopeless or empty
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Physical symptoms such as headaches or body aches
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms must be present most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks to be considered clinical depression. Depression can be caused by a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, hormonal changes, stress, trauma, or major life changes.

How is depression diagnosed?

Hawley diagnoses depression through a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation where she discusses your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and emotional health. She uses DSM-5 criteria to determine whether you meet the criteria for a depressive disorder and may also screen for anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders that can occur alongside depression. HC Mental Health & Wellness also offers GeneSight® testing to help identify which medications may work best based on your genetic profile.

How is depression treated?

Treatment for depression at HC Mental Health & Wellness may include medication management, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or other evidence-based therapies. Treatment plans are personalized based on your symptoms, goals, and lifestyle.

Lifestyle changes can also play an important role in managing depression. Hawley may recommend improving sleep habits, increasing physical activity, building supportive routines, practicing stress-reduction techniques, and strengthening social connections. She provides ongoing follow-up care to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Schedule a virtual depression evaluation with Hawley at HC Mental Health & Wellness by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.