Depression Specialist

Fauquier Family Practice PLC

Board Certified Family Medicine located in Warrenton, VA

Depression is much more than simply feeling sad. While sadness is a normal emotion, pervasive sadness coupled with a loss of interest in things you enjoyed before are signs you could be living with depression. Fortunately, treatment is available to help lift this dark cloud. Call Michael T. Lin, MD, and the team at Fauquier Family Practice, PLC, in Warrenton, Virginia, and discuss your symptoms with the compassionate staff. Alternately, you can book an appointment online at your convenience.

606-441-2990

Depression Q & A

What is depression?

Depression is a diagnosable, treatable mental health condition. This disorder affects your mood and can have wide-reaching effects on your daily life. People often flippantly say they feel depressed, but depression is much more than just a passing bout of sadness. It’s characterized by:

Ongoing feelings of sadness and hopelessness
Loss of interest in things you cared about before
Social withdrawal
Sleep and appetite irregularities
Feelings of guilt and/or shame
Fatigue
Irritability
Anxiety
Suicidal thoughts

Depression isn’t something you have to “get over” on your own. The team at Fauquier Family Health offers diagnosis and treatment for depression. They start by taking the time to understand the specific cause of your depression

What causes depression?

Many people assume that depression is caused by something bad happening to the person. While certain events can trigger depressive episodes, many instances of depression aren’t caused by anything other than a chemical imbalance in the brain.

For example, postpartum depression — depression that develops after giving birth — or seasonal affective disorder — depression that comes with the colder, darker seasons — aren’t caused by something bad happening. Instead, physical changes in the person or their environment start a depressive episode.

In other words, symptoms of depression aren’t a sign that something bad has happened or you’ve done something wrong. Depression can affect anyone, even if their life looks positive from an outside perspective. If you’re experiencing depressive symptoms, don’t hesitate to talk to your Fauquier Family Practice provider about them. Starting treatment gives you the tools you need to overcome your symptoms and feel like yourself again.

How is depression treated?

At Fauquier Family Practice, PLC, the team of mental health experts personalizes treatment based on your wants and needs. For some people, talk therapy (i.e., seeing a therapist regularly) is an extremely effective treatment. Other people benefit from medication to moderate their depressive symptoms.

Your Fauquier Family Practice provider works with you to find the treatment plan that helps you feel your best. In many cases, supplementing your treatments with lifestyle changes like healthy eating and regular exercise can help you reduce your symptoms faster.

Don’t suffer through depressive symptoms alone. Get personalized treatment by calling Fauquier Family Practice or making an appointment online today.

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