Depression

Conditions we treat

These are the depressive disorders described in the DSM-5-TR, in plain language. A diagnosis is made only by a licensed clinician after a full evaluation.

Major depressive disorder

At least two weeks of depressed mood or loss of interest, along with several of the symptoms above, that cause real distress or get in the way of daily life. It can happen once or come in episodes. Some people experience it with anxious distress, with a seasonal pattern (usually fall and winter), or around pregnancy and birth.

Postpartum and perinatal depression

Depression that begins during pregnancy or in the months after birth. It is different from the brief "baby blues" and is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. Partners can be affected too. We also see new parents with perinatal anxiety and intrusive thoughts.

Persistent depressive disorder

A lower-grade depression that lasts at least two years in adults (one year in children and teens), with symptoms such as poor appetite or overeating, sleep problems, low energy, low self-esteem, poor concentration or hopelessness. People often describe it as "this is just how I am."

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Marked mood swings, irritability, depressed mood or anxiety in the week before a period that improve within days of it starting, severe enough to interfere with work or relationships. Therapy helps with the mood symptoms and with planning around the cycle; we coordinate with your medical provider.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)

Diagnosed in children and adolescents (onset before age 10): severe, frequent temper outbursts that are out of proportion to the situation, with a persistently irritable or angry mood between outbursts, lasting a year or more and showing up in more than one setting.

Depression related to a medical condition or medication

Depression can be triggered or worsened by thyroid problems, chronic pain, neurological conditions, certain medications and other medical causes. We work alongside your physician when that's part of the picture.

How we treat it

Cognitive behavioral therapy and behavioral activation, which rebuilds the activity and connection that depression strips away, have the strongest evidence for depression. Interpersonal, psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches help many people, especially when depression is tied to relationships, loss or longstanding patterns. If medication is part of your care, your therapist will coordinate with your prescriber.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness and acceptance-based therapy
• Psychodynamic therapy
• Person-centered therapy
• Solution-focused therapy
• All approaches

Where to get help for depression

Available at every Oceanic® office and through our telehealth team.

Diagnostic descriptions on this page are summarized in plain language from the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR, 2022). This page is educational. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a licensed clinician, and only a licensed clinician can make a diagnosis.