Depression

Depression is a complex mental health condition affecting people worldwide. It goes beyond normal sadness and significantly impairs daily functioning and emotional well-being. Symptoms include persistent low mood, loss of interest, and physical and cognitive disturbances. Understanding, support, and effective treatment are crucial. Neuromed clinic provides assessment, diagnosis and support for those struggling with depression through an evidence based and compassionate approach to mental health care. Neuromed Clinic has successfully helped thousands recover from depression through comprehensive care from psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and coaches. The clinic offers cutting-edge depression treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and will soon introduce Ketamine therapy, expanding its commitment to innovative, personalised mental healthcare. Our shared goal is to support people on their path to mental and emotional wellbeing.

Types of Depression

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Most common type of depression
Marked by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities
Symptoms include mood changes, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, fatigue, poor concentration, and suicidal thoughts
Causes impairment in occupational, social, and personal functioning
Diagnosed when symptoms persist for 2+ weeks
Treatment often involves medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Chronic, milder form of depression
Symptoms present more days than not for at least 2 years
Symptoms include low energy, low self-esteem, poor concentration, feelings of hopelessness
Does not severely impair functioning, but can reduce quality of life
Treated with medication and psychotherapy

Postpartum Depression

Occurs in women after childbirth
Marked by sadness, anxiety, irritability, fatigue, poor sleep, changes in appetite
Contributes to difficulty bonding with baby
Believed to be caused by hormonal changes after pregnancy
Treated with medication, psychotherapy, support groups

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Depression episodes that onset during autumn/winter months
Associated with fewer daylight hours
Symptoms include low energy, increased sleep, weight gain, cravings for carbs
Light therapy is often an effective treatment

Bipolar Disorder

Characterised by cycles between depressive and manic episodes
Mania includes elevated mood, increased energy, less need for sleep
Dramatic shifts in mood impair functioning
Treated with mood-stabilising medication and psychotherapy

Treatment Options for Depression

Medication

Psychiatrists at Neuromed Clinic can prescribe medication to address chemical imbalances implicated in depression. Antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs work by regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. Though it may take a few weeks to reach full effect, medication can help relieve symptoms.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in mood-regulating parts of the brain. TMS is proven to be effective in activating underactive areas of the brain to treat depression and provides rapid relief with minimal side effects. Neuromed clinic also offers TMS therapy for people who do not wish to try medication.

Ketamine

Ketamine treatment for depression is a relatively new approach that has shown promising results in clinical trials. By targeting different neural pathways than traditional antidepressants, ketamine can provide rapid relief from symptoms, often within hours or days, for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression.

Psychotherapy

Neuromed clinic offers various types of psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which helps modify negative thought and behaviour patterns. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) teaches distress tolerance and emotion regulation skills. Therapy is tailored to each patient's needs.

Self-Help Strategies

Guidance from Neuromed Clinic's experts can empower people with depression or anxiety to make positive life changes such as exercise, eating a healthy diet and incorporating supplements such as vitamin D and fish oils, establishing a daily routine, and social support can complement professional treatment. Relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and avoiding alcohol are also beneficial.