Understanding Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad.

Depression is a real medical condition, not a personal failure or weakness. It happens when stress overwhelms the brain and body over time, disrupting how we think, feel, sleep, eat, and relate to others.

Many factors play a role—like genetics, life circumstances, trauma, and lifestyle habits. But the good news is: depression is treatable, and full recovery—called remission—is possible.

HOW TREATMENT WORKS

Depression treatment is about more than just “cheering up”—it’s about healing the brain and restoring your capacity to thrive.

A good treatment plan focuses on three goals:

  1. Repair the effects of chronic stress

    • Medication and psychotherapy help heal brain circuits affected by stress.

  2. Strengthen stress tolerance

    • Therapy and lifestyle changes improve resilience and reduce future breakdowns.

  3. Build protective routines

    • Habits like sleep, movement, connection, and nutrition help prevent relapse.

For some people, traditional approaches aren’t enough. That’s why we also offer advanced treatments like ketamine therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)—all of which are safe, effective options when depression is severe or resistant to first-line care.

WHAT DEPRESSION FEELS LIKE

If you’ve been experiencing several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it may be depression:

  • Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness

  • Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy

  • Changes in sleep—too much or too little

  • Low energy or constant fatigue

  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions

  • Appetite or weight changes

  • Feeling worthless or guilty

  • Irritability or restlessness

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

YOU DESERVE TO FEEL BETTER

You’re not broken. You’re not alone. With the right support, depression can be treated—and remission is within reach.

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