Depression

Depression Care & Treatment

Depression is a common medical illness that affects mood, thinking and physical health. It is more than feeling sad or having a temporary low mood — it can interfere with eating, sleeping, working and enjoying life. Depression is not a personal weakness and usually requires professional treatment, including therapy or medication.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can vary, but may include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness or hopelessness
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Fatigue or low energy
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek immediate help by calling 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Personalized Treatment Approach

At Marshall Health, we take an individualized, patient-centered approach to treating depression. Our providers work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs. Our comprehensive depression care includes:

Psychotherapy or counseling
Responsible providers offer evidence-based talk therapies, including cognitive behavioral and other psychotherapeutic approaches to help you understand and manage symptoms.

Medication management
When appropriate, antidepressant medications may be prescribed and monitored by experienced psychiatrists. It can take several weeks to feel the full benefits, and close follow-up helps optimize treatment.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
As the only provider of ECT in the region, mental health professionals from Marshall Psychiatry assess the appropriateness of patients for referral for ECT. Patients are usually expected to remain with their current outpatient psychiatrist, and are seen in consultation prior to referral for ECT, which is provided through Marshall Psychiatry at Marshall Health Network - St. Mary's Medical Center. Referring physicians are asked to send full psychiatric and medical records to the clinic prior to the patient being seen.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
For individuals whose symptoms have not improved with other treatments, non-invasive transcranial magnetic stimulation is available as an alternative treatment option. TMS uses focused magnetic fields to stimulate brain regions involved in mood regulation.

Support programs
In addition to traditional outpatient care, patients may benefit from structured programs like the Mind Wellness Center, which provides therapeutic support in an intensive outpatient setting.

Why Care Matters

Without treatment, depressive episodes can persist for weeks, months or longer, but most people experience improvement with appropriate care. Our team is here to support your recovery every step of the way.