Depression
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About Depression
Depression can affect all ages. If you’re experiencing uncontrollable sadness and struggling to manage day-to-day activities, you’re not alone. Emem Nkanga, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, and the team at Mindful Solutions Psychiatry in Garland, Texas, offer compassionate depression care to patients over ten years old. Whether you’re interested in medication, therapy, or support for a family member, call the friendly staff or schedule an appointment online today.
Depression Q & A
What is depression?
Depression, or major depressive disorder, is a chronic mental health condition that leaves you struggling to find joy.
An injury, car accident, job loss, death in the family, intense breakup, or other traumatic life circumstances can trigger the disorder. Depression can begin at any age and often operates in cycles — improving and then returning.
Some women experience depression during their pregnancy or after having a child.
What are the symptoms of depression?
For both children and adults, mental and physical symptoms of depression include:
- Constant feelings of sadness or emptiness
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Lack of motivation
- Isolation
- Less talking or eye contact
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Lack of sex drive
- Avoiding personal grooming
- Weight loss or gain
- Trouble concentrating
- Muscle aches and pains
If you or your loved one has thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or harming others, you should seek emergency care as soon as possible.
What is the treatment for depression?
Depression is among the most treatable mental health conditions, with 80–90% of individuals responding well to appropriate care. At Mindful Solutions Psychiatry, we focus on accurate diagnosis and personalized medication management to help you feel better and regain balance in your life.
Your provider may recommend lab testing to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to symptoms. From there, we create a collaborative, individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Medications & GeneSight Testing
Antidepressant medications work by balancing the brain chemicals that affect mood, energy, and stress levels. However, finding the right medication can sometimes take time.
At Mindful Solutions Psychiatry, we use GeneSight® testing, an advanced genetic test that helps identify how your body may respond to different medications. This allows us to:
- Reduce trial-and-error prescribing
- Select medications more likely to be effective
- Minimize unwanted side effects
Your provider will closely monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed. While antidepressants typically take 4–6 weeks to show full effects, ongoing communication ensures the best possible outcome.
Some medications may cause side effects such as drowsiness, weight changes, or changes in libido. We work with you to manage these effectively and find the best fit.
Supportive Care & Lifestyle Guidance
While we do not provide psychotherapy services in-house, your provider may recommend complementary strategies to support your treatment, such as:
- Regular exercise
- Balanced nutrition
- Sleep optimization
- Stress management techniques (e.g., mindfulness or journaling)
- Referrals to trusted therapy providers if additional support is needed
Advanced Treatment Options
For individuals who do not respond to standard medications, your provider may discuss alternative or advanced treatment options and provide referrals when appropriate.
Get Started Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, compassionate and personalized care is available. Contact Mindful Solutions Psychiatry today to schedule your consultation or use our convenient online booking tool.