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Depression

The Role of Sleep in Managing Depression

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Sleep and depression are closely linked, with each significantly influencing the other. Poor sleep can worsen depressive symptoms, while depression can interfere with the ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. Understanding how sleep and mood interact offers powerful insights for managing depression. When sleep is optimized, it can serve as a foundational element in emotional regulation and psychological recovery. Conversely, chronic sleep disturbances can undermine even the most effective treatment plans, making sleep hygiene a critical component of mental health care. How Depression Affects Sleep Patterns Depression often disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, or circadian rhythm. People with depression may struggle with insomnia, waking frequently during the night, or experiencing early-morning awakenings that leave them feeling unrested. Others may experience hypersomnia, or excessive sleeping, without feeling refreshed. According to the National Sleep …

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5 Ways to Cope with Seasonal Depression

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry   As the days get shorter and the cold sets in, many people find themselves battling a shift in mood and energy. For some, this isn’t just a passing feeling—it can evolve into seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a type of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months.  Affecting an estimated 5% of the population in the U.S., SAD is often marked by symptoms like low mood, irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, which can disrupt daily life. However, there are several evidence-based strategies to help manage the symptoms of SAD, allowing you to feel more in control and resilient as the darker months unfold. Below are 5 practical ways to cope with seasonal depression, along with the latest research to support each approach: 1. Light …

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How Common is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
man smiling after asking how common is treatment-resistant depression

How common is treatment-resistant depression? Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a prevalent condition, affecting approximately 30% of individuals with major depressive disorder (NCBI). Despite multiple treatment attempts, including medication and therapy, these individuals do not achieve sufficient relief from their symptoms. Understanding TRD’s prevalence underscores the need for alternative treatments, such as ketamine therapy, to address this significant mental health challenge. Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a significant concern, affecting approximately 30% of individuals with major depressive disorder. Despite multiple treatment attempts, this prevalence highlights the challenge many face in finding effective relief from their symptoms. Addressing TRD’s impact is crucial for developing alternative therapies, such as ketamine, that offer hope for better outcomes. This article explores a common question we hear from patients interested in solutions for treatment-resistant depression: “How common is treatment-resistant depression?” What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression? Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a form of major depressive disorder that does not …

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Self-Harm Awareness Month 2024

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   What is Self-Harm Awareness Month? Self-Harm Awareness Month spans the month of March with the purpose of spreading awareness, breaking the stigma, and providing support and hope to those who have or currently self-harm. Self-Harm Awareness month is observed in the United States, Canada, and parts of Western Europe.  What is self-harm? Self-harm is also known as nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). Self-harm describes the act of purposely harming oneself; this act is often done by burning, cutting, pulling out hair, or picking at wounds to prevent healing. Self-harm indicates emotional distress and can lead to injury as severe as broken bones (NAMI, 2021).  Self-harm urges a need for healthier coping skills for emotional distress, and though it isn’t a mental illness in and of itself, self-harm is often associated with mental illness such as depression, trauma-related disorders, and borderline personality disorder (NAMI, 2021). It is also …

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What is High-functioning Depression?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
business woman wondering what is high-functioning depression

What is high-functioning depression? High-functioning depression, clinically known as dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder, is a form of depression where individuals can maintain their daily responsibilities and outward appearances of normalcy despite experiencing chronic symptoms of depression. These symptoms include low mood, fatigue, and a general lack of interest, which persist over a long period but may not severely disrupt daily functioning. Many people with high-functioning depression struggle silently, as their ability to keep up with daily tasks masks the severity of their emotional pain. This often leads to their struggles being overlooked or minimized by themselves and others, making it difficult to recognize the need for help. Understanding high-functioning depression requires acknowledging that someone can appear productive and engaged while internally battling significant emotional distress, emphasizing the importance of compassionate support and professional depression treatment. What Is High-Functioning Depression? High-functioning depression, also known as dysthymia, presents a unique challenge …

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