Common signs of depression
- Feeling sad, empty or irritable most of the day
- Losing interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
- Sleeping much more or much less than usual
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Low energy, or feeling slowed down
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
In children and teens, depression can also look like
- Irritability or anger more than sadness
- Falling grades or refusing to go to school
- Pulling away from friends and activities
- Frequent headaches or stomach aches without a clear cause
How we help
The right diagnosis
We screen for bipolar disorder before starting antidepressants, because the treatment is different.
Medication options
Antidepressants and other medicines, chosen with your history, other conditions and preferences in mind.
Therapy and daily structure
Skills for low motivation and hopeless thinking, plus sleep, activity and routine.
Measured progress
The PHQ-9 questionnaire at each visit tracks how your symptoms change over time.
What to expect
- Many people notice some change two to four weeks after starting an antidepressant. The full effect can take six to eight weeks or longer.
- If the first medicine does not help enough, there are many other options. Most people find one that works.
Common questions
How long will I need to take an antidepressant?
Usually for several months after you feel well again, to lower the chance of depression coming back. When it is time to stop, we lower the dose slowly together.
Is depression treated differently in older adults?
Often, yes. We pay close attention to other health conditions, other medicines, memory, and lower starting doses.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Every person is different, and your treatment plan is decided with your clinician.