Major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. It also leads to a loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed and impacts how you feel, think, and behave.

Beyond its emotional impact, MDD can also cause physical issues, such as disturbed sleep patterns, appetite changes, and concentration problems. These symptoms combined can make it difficult for you to maintain a normal routine and overall well-being.

At Kimball Health Services, we provide personalized care and comprehensive support for patients dealing with depression. Our mental health care provider, Ron Strachan, APRN, creates customized treatment plans to address your specific challenges and needs.

MDD is more than just a feeling of melancholy. It's a deep-rooted despair that can consume your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Symptoms of MDD often persist throughout the day, every day, leading to a sense of emotional exhaustion and isolation.

Clinical depression is diagnosed if you exhibit several of the following symptoms.

• Persistent sadness or emptiness that does not seem to have a clear cause
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable
• Changes in weight due to overeating or decreased appetite
• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleep
• Lack of energy and feeling drained even with sufficient rest
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Physical symptoms, such as headaches, chronic pain, or digestive issues 

While there are some common symptoms associated with MDD, the experience can vary greatly from person to person. Depression is a highly personal journey, influenced by factors such as your environment and life experiences.

At Kimball Health Services, we believe that no two journeys with depression are the same. That's why we offer specialized care tailored to your specific needs and condition.

The first step in your journey is an initial assessment to gain a comprehensive understanding of your condition. This assessment helps us establish specific treatment goals and develop a personalized plan.

MDD is a chronic condition that often manifests in episodes lasting several weeks or months. The severity and frequency of these episodes play a significant role in determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

Throughout the treatment, we regularly monitor your progress to ensure the effectiveness of our plan. This ongoing evaluation allows us to make adjustments as needed, providing a structured and supportive journey toward healing.

Our treatment options can include therapeutic approaches, such as:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - CBT is a widely recognized and highly effective form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and reshaping negative thought patterns and behaviors. This structured approach equips you with practical skills to manage depression, promoting healthier thinking and problem-solving. CBT helps you understand your thought processes, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience against depressive symptoms.
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) - DBT is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to address complex emotional and mental health challenges. DBT assists you in recognizing your emotions without judgment while simultaneously working on strategies to transform unhealthy behaviors and emotions into healthier ones. This therapy is particularly beneficial for those dealing with intense mood swings, self-destructive behaviors, and issues with self-identity.
• Pharmacotherapy - Pharmacotherapy is the use of medication to manage and alleviate the symptoms of depression. Medications for depression can include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic drugs. Our skilled providers determine the best medicine based on your specific symptoms and medical history. Pharmacotherapy may also be used in conjunction with psychotherapy for a more holistic treatment plan.

These therapeutic approaches are not mutually exclusive, and the optimal treatment plan may involve a combination of therapies. Additionally, alternative therapies like mindfulness practices and exercise may sometimes be used to complement traditional treatments.

While MDD can be a challenging condition, it's important to know that effective treatment is available. At Kimball Health Services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help you overcome depression.

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. To schedule a consultation with our healthcare providers, please contact us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online.