Depression & Treatments

You may have a lot of questions about depression. What is it? What causes it? Who's at risk? To understand depression, and find more information and treatment options for this common disorder, please view our topic headings below.

Understanding Depression & Bipolar

Depressive Disorders

Depression is a serious illness caused by changes in brain chemistry. Factors that contribute to the onset of depression include: genetics, changes in hormone levels, certain medical conditions, stress, grief or difficult life circumstances. These factors, either alone or in combination, can precipitate changes in brain chemistry that lead to depression’s many symptoms.

There are a number of depressive disorders, and their symptoms combine differently in each individual. It is important to learn about one’s specific illness and recognize its symptoms, in order to prevent them from spiraling into serious episodes. To learn more about Depressive Disorders, please visit our Depression Toolkit.

Depression Treatment Options

There are many different treatment options available to patients diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, or other related illnesses. These treatments can be divided into three categories: Psychotherapy, medication, and nueromodulation. Additional treatment options include taking care of oneself, such as exercising, eating well, having healthy sleep habits, and manage stress.

Depression can be a complicated illness to diagnose, treat, and manage. Therefore, it is important to understand all of the treatment options available, and to actively participate in developing, maintaining and monitoring a treatment plan. To learn more about treatment options, please visit our Depression Toolkit.