Depression

Persistent sadness and feeling like you’ve lost hope are hallmark symptoms of chronic depression. At Bright Side Mental Health Services, adults and adolescents aged 12 and up can find the high-quality care needed to manage depression symptoms. Janenita Chukwu, APRN, PMHNP-BC, takes an empathetic approach to evaluating and treating depression. She uses the latest tools, including psychotherapy and medications, to regulate your mood and restore your energy levels. Call the office in Tacoma, Washington, to schedule a depression screening or book a consultation online today. 

What causes depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in usual activities. The disorder can develop in adults and adolescents for a variety of reasons, including:

• Genetic factors
• Hormone imbalances
• Personality traits
• Brain chemistry differences

Factors like stress, trauma, chronic illness, and substance use can also contribute to depression. Additionally, you may be at increased risk for depression if you have anxiety or another mental health disorder.

Bright Side Mental Health Services offers compassionate, personalized care for adults and adolescents with chronic depression.

Janenita offers a variety of treatments to support your mental and emotional wellness, including psychotherapy and medications. She can meet with you in the office or through the online telehealth platform to assess your needs and discuss your treatment options.

When should I seek medical attention for depression?

Temporary feelings of sadness can be a normal side effect of stress and life circumstances. Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Bright Side Mental Health Services if you have persistent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and hopelessness accompanied by:

• Low energy
• Irritability
• Anxiousness 
• Negative thoughts
• Difficulties making decisions
• Sleeping too much or too little

If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room for immediate treatment. 

Janenita provides depression screenings in the office and through telehealth to better understand the frequency and severity of your symptoms. She creates a treatment plan to manage existing symptoms and prevent additional depressive episodes. 

How is depression treated?

Bright Side Mental Health Services offers psychotherapy and other counseling services to help you identify unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors linked to depression. Therapy gives you tools you can use to manage mood changes and improve your quality of life. 

When therapy isn’t enough, you might need prescription antidepressants to restore brain chemical balance. Janenita works with you to find the proper medication and dosage to manage depression in the long term. 

Lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can boost your energy levels and restore feelings of self-confidence. 

Call Bright Side Mental Health Services to schedule a depression screening for yourself or your child. You can also book a consultation online today.