Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition, so if you constantly feel sad or hopeless, you're not alone. Fortunately, help is available at Brandy Wadsworth Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC in Hudson Falls, New York. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Brandy Wadsworth, DNP, PMHNP-BC, diagnoses and treats depression to improve your mood and mental well-being. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or requesting one online today.

What is depression?

Depression is a mental health concern affecting your moods, emotions, and, often, behaviors. It’s associated with ongoing or extreme sadness and a loss of interest in once-favorite activities. While some forms of depression come and go, others remain or even worsen over time when left untreated. 

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression can cause:

• Hopelessness
• Feeling worthless
• Loss of interest in favorite things
• Sleep changes
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Social isolation
• Appetite or weight changes
• Thoughts of suicide 
• Frustration
• Irritability 
• Physical aches and pains

Depression may be mild, moderate, or severe and sometimes dangerous.

What are the risk factors for depression?

The exact cause of depression isn’t always clear. It may stem from genetics, your environment, or both. Risk factors include brain chemistry changes, stress, trauma, medical conditions, financial problems, relationship issues, loss of a loved one, hormone changes, and some medications. 

How is depression diagnosed?

Brandy diagnoses depression and other mental health disorders by completing a psychiatric evaluation using DSM-5 criteria. During a comprehensive initial evaluation, she reviews your symptoms, lifestyle, medications, and medical history. She also discusses your emotions, moods, thoughts, and behaviors.

How is depression treated?

If Brandy determines that you have depression, she works with you to create a customized treatment plan that may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Medication management
• Counseling
• Stress management techniques

Schedule a depression evaluation at Brandy Wadsworth Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.