Depression Specialist
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OC-Psychiatrist, Inc.
Andrew D Morrow, M.D.
Psychiatrist located in Mission Viejo, CA
In any given year, over 16 million Americans experience depression or major depressive disorder. At OC-Psychiatrist, Inc. in Mission Viejo, California, Andrew Morrow, MD, diagnoses depression and provides personalized treatment plans to relieve your symptoms and improve your mood, energy levels, and motivation. Call OC-Psychiatrist, Inc. today or schedule a consultation online if you have concerns about depression.
Depression Q & A
What is depression?
Depression is a prevalent mental health condition that causes pervasive and disruptive feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and guilt. Your negative thoughts and emotions affect other aspects of your life, ranging from your work performance to your relationships with family and friends.
Depression is different from sadness or grief. Sadness and grief subside with time, while depression persists for months or even years. Fortunately, depression is treatable.
What are common depression symptoms?
Depression causes mental, emotional, and physical symptoms. In addition to persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness, common warning signs of depression include:
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Changes in appetite
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Low energy or fatigue
- Reduced concentration and decisiveness
- Irritability
- Purposeless activities like hand-wringing or pacing
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
If you have suicidal thoughts or want to hurt yourself, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room for immediate help,
When should I talk to a doctor about depression?
Feeling sad and experiencing grief are normal human emotions that everyone has from time to time. However, if you have persistent depression symptoms that interfere with your ability to function in your day-to-day life, make an appointment with Dr. Morrow.
How is depression treated?
Dr. Morrow begins with an evaluation to assess and diagnose your condition. He asks you questions, so the assessment might feel a little like an interview or an intense conversation.
After evaluating your condition, Dr. Morrow discusses your treatment options and creates a personalized treatment plan. He doesn’t just prescribe an antidepressant — he offers a comprehensive approach to depression treatment.
Dr. Morrow often combines medication with psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and natural remedies to address each patient’s needs. Medication can reduce your depressive thoughts and feelings, providing the mental clarity and energy needed to implement other therapies.
Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to explore and resolve the memories, thoughts, and beliefs that contribute to your depression. You might also benefit from dietary adjustments and natural supplements to enhance your health and energy levels and receive the full benefits of medications.
Exercise and meditation can also help with depression. Physical activity stimulates endorphins, mood-boosting hormones, and meditation can help you focus on the present instead of dwelling on negative thoughts or memories.
Call OC-Psychiatrist, Inc. today or make an appointment online if you have depression symptoms and want attentive, patient-focused care.