We all get down in the dumps sometimes. For most of us, it is transitory and we work our way out of it. For others, depression is a real part of their lives. Many keep it to themselves and tell no one, but don’t allow depression to go untreated. Depression: how a primary care provider can help.
What Is Depression
There are some set characteristics that define depression. It is thought of as a major mood disorder or clinical depression. There are feelings of sadness, loss, or anger.
It does not go away in a few days or weeks. These feelings of sadness can be constant.
Common emotions and behaviors include: sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in hobbies or former enjoyable interests, fatigue, difficulty with concentration, remembering things, or making decisions. Many depressed people find it difficult to define; they just know they feel sad and nothing helps.
The post-pandemic world we live in has increased depression, and in fact, it tripled from 2020 to 2021. According to The Lancet depression among young adults went from 8.5% to 27.8%. In 2021 it rose to 32.8%.
All these people are not going to psychiatrists, so how are they coping?
First Line Of Defense
Primary care providers are dealing with more cases of depression than ever before. The American Academy of Family Physicians tells us that two-thirds of patients with depression receive treatment from their primary care provider like the team of psychotherapy specialists.
You are screened for depression each time you see your PCP. They will ask a few leading questions about how you are feeling. Based on your answers, they may begin a conversation with you on the topic.
Most patients are comfortable talking with their primary care provider and will usually open up about their feelings. Your doctor may ask if you would like a mild antidepressant medication. They will evaluate your progress on your next visit, and sometimes they will give you a higher prescription if it has helped some, but not quite enough.
If this approach is not reducing your feelings of depression, they may refer you to a counselor or another professional.
Talk with your primary care provider if you are having feelings of sadness which linger. Encourage other members of your family to do likewise. Don’t be silent about your feelings of depression.
Contact The Marcann Group at 602-824-9309 if you are having feelings of sadness that won’t go away.
