Depression

Persistent sadness, low motivation, or emotional heaviness can make everyday life harder than it should be. If you’re experiencing these feelings, you may be dealing with depression, which can impact your mood, energy, and relationships. At Neurobloom Psychiatry in Temecula, California, board-certified psychiatrist Sandra Cox, MD, can help you regain balance, clarity, and hope with her comprehensive assessments and expert care for adolescents and adults. Start your path to healthy mental health by calling the office or scheduling an appointment online today.

What is depression?

Depression is a common mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and function in your daily life. It’s not just about temporary sadness or a rough patch that might interfere with work, relationships, sleep, and overall motivation; it can make you emotionally drained, disconnected, or overwhelmed for weeks or longer. 

While depression can be serious, it’s also highly treatable, especially when Dr. Cox can address your condition early with professional care.

What are the signs of depression?

Depression can look different from one person to another, but symptoms often persist during most days and affect multiple areas of life. Common signs may include:

• Ongoing feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Low energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down
• Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or self-criticism
• Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may gradually worsen if left untreated.

What causes depression?

There’s no single cause of depression. It typically develops from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. 

Genetics can play a role, as depression may run in families. Imbalances in brain chemistry and how your brain regulates mood can also contribute. 

Life stressors like grief, trauma, major transitions, chronic stress, or medical conditions may trigger symptoms. However, personal coping styles and support systems can influence how depression develops and persists.

How is depression treated?

Dr. Cox personalizes your treatment for depression, basing it on your symptoms, history, and needs. 

Many treatment plans include psychotherapy, which helps you identify negative thought patterns, build coping skills, and improve emotional resilience. She may also recommend medication to help regulate your mood and relieve symptoms. 

In addition, lifestyle changes such as improving sleep habits, managing stress, staying physically active, and maintaining social connections can support your recovery. 

Dr. Cox can offer the right combination of treatment and ongoing support to help you experience meaningful improvement and regain a sense of purpose and well-being.

To start your mental health wellness journey, call Neurobloom Psychiatry or use the online scheduling feature today.