Depressive Disorders

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how the individual feels, thinks and behaves, and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

Common Depressive Disorders: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Persistent Depressive Disorder (formerly Dysthymia), Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Postpartum Depression, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Depression with Co-occurring Conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, chronic illnesses, or substance use.

Individual’s experience with depression is unique, but the most common symptoms of depression are:

• Consistent feelings of sadness
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Appetite changes, with weight gain or weight loss
• Fatigue
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Suicidal ideations (if active, a person needs to seek immediate help by calling 911 or going to the nearest Emergency Room).

Dr. Zorica Filipovic-Jewell approaches each person who experiences symptoms of depression with compassion and support. Her approach includes the following:

Comprehensive clinical evaluation: This includes a clinical interview and a review of medical history and lab parameters to rule out medical causes of depressive symptoms. When diagnosis of Depressive Disorder is established, it is followed by a psychoeducation and utilization of psychotherapy (CBT, EFT, IFS, relaxation techniques) and medication management with antidepressants, if indicated. Sleep management is often necessary if a sleep pattern is affected.

Lifestyle and behavioral strategies are equally important when treating Depressive Disorders. Dr. Zorica Filipovic-Jewell’s particular focus is to help patients understand the importance of achieving healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness practices, which are all powerful tools in managing depressive symptoms.

Depression can make simple tasks feel overwhelming, but recovery is possible. If you are experiencing depressive symptoms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation.