Our Services / Depression

What is depression?

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions. It’s most common in adults, but children and adolescents can also live with these pervasive feelings of sadness and hopelessness caused by depression. 

Depression affects your thoughts, feelings, and actions, often leading to severe disruptions to your life. It influences your performance at work or school and your relationships with friends, family, and loved ones.

What causes depression?

Medical researchers don’t fully understand the cause of depression, although they’ve identified several contributing factors. For example, imbalances in your neurotransmitters can affect your mood and contribute to depression.

Additionally, a history of family mental illness, poverty, neglect, or abuse can increase your risk of developing the condition. 

When should I talk to a psychologist about depression?

Depression causes various symptoms that can severely reduce your quality of life, such as:

• Intense, persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness
• Lost interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Appetite changes
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Increased purposeless activity, such as pacing or hand-wringing
• Increased irritability or a short temper
• Reduced concentration or decision-making 
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you have any of these symptoms and they’re interfering with your day-to-day life, it’s time to talk to a psychologist for help. Beyond that, if you’re seriously thinking of self-harm or suicide, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

How is depression treated?

At FamilyTime Centers, Dr. Kaufman begins with an evaluation. This appointment usually takes 90 minutes, and Dr. Kaufman asks questions to get to know you and understand your condition and needs. 

After your evaluation, Dr. Kaufman recommends a treatment program. As a psychologist, he often combines psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, with BrainPaint® neurofeedback and lifestyle modifications. 

He provides a safe and nurturing environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. He also can teach you strategies to cope with depression symptoms. Neurofeedback retrains your brain to correct abnormal activity associated with depression.

Dr. Kaufman might also recommend adding physical activity to your daily routine and adjusting your diet. Exercise is known to release feel-good endorphins and alleviate stress and negative emotions. Optimizing your diet can enhance your overall health and make it easier to cope with your condition.

Call FamilyTime Centers today or make an appointment online if you’re concerned about depression and want expert, patient-focused psychological care.