The length of a psychiatric evaluation can differ significantly among individuals. The extent of information required plays a crucial role in determining the duration of the assessment. Generally, a psychiatric evaluation ranges from 30 to 60 minutes. At Comprehensive Behavioral Health, evaluations are conducted over a period of approximately one hour to guarantee a thorough and precise assessment.

Depression may manifest through a variety of symptoms, which can include:

• Persistent low mood

• Alterations in appetite

• Disruptions in sleep patterns

• Decreased energy levels

• Ongoing fatigue

• Restlessness or repetitive movements

• Slowed physical responses

• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

• Cognitive difficulties

• Challenges with concentration

The presentation of symptoms can differ among individuals; for instance, some may experience a decrease in appetite, while others may engage in overeating. Additionally, one might encounter difficulties with sleep or find themselves sleeping excessively.

If you have been experiencing these symptoms for a duration of two weeks or longer, it is possible that you are dealing with depression. Nevertheless, it is crucial to exclude other medical conditions that may produce similar symptoms, such as hypothyroidism or deficiencies in essential nutrients.

Depression can arise from various factors. A significant contributor is the imbalance of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which may indicate a potential genetic predisposition that increases the likelihood of developing depression in certain individuals.

Additionally, individuals with low self-esteem or difficulties in stress management may find themselves at a higher risk for experiencing depression. Environmental influences also play a crucial role in increasing vulnerability to this condition, including:

• Exposure to violence

• Experiences of abuse

• Instances of neglect

• Living in poverty

Depression is a prevalent issue that can impact individuals at any point in their lives, although many first encounter it during their teenage years or early adulthood.

Loving Care Mental Health Service employs two primary methods for addressing depression: medication and psychotherapy.

Medication

Correcting imbalances in brain chemistry can play a crucial role in your recovery from depression. To facilitate this, you may be prescribed antidepressant medication. There is a wide variety of antidepressants available, and it may be necessary to experiment with different options to identify the one that works best for you.

You may begin to notice some improvement in your symptoms within the initial weeks of starting antidepressants; however, it may take several months to experience the full effects. If you do not observe any improvement, adjustments to your dosage, the addition of another medication, or a switch to a different medication may be required.

It is essential to continue your medication for a minimum of six months after your symptoms have improved to reduce the risk of relapse. In certain instances, individuals who are prone to depression may need to maintain long-term use of antidepressants.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, commonly referred to as talk therapy, is a vital component in the effective treatment of depression. Loving Care Mental Health Service can provide referrals for various therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one such approach that emphasizes present-day issues and problem-solving strategies. CBT assists you in identifying cognitive distortions and adjusting your responses accordingly.

Additionally, psychotherapy can aid in addressing any underlying factors contributing to your depression.

If your condition does not improve with these treatments, Loving Care Mental Health Service also offers alternative therapies, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), Spravato (esketamine therapy), and vagal nerve stimulation (VNS).