Depression Treatment Clinic in NYC

Depression is highly complex, and the causes are not entirely understood. Several research studies suggest that depression results from irregular hormone and neurotransmitter release, which results in impaired function.

Hormones and neurochemicals are both types of body chemicals used to send and receive signals that regulate various body functions. The difference between the two is where it is released and by what; a hormone is released by a specific type of gland into the bloodstream, whereas a neurotransmitter is secreted by neurons and nerves (a group of neurons).

Scientists often focus on the neurotransmitter serotonin, which influences mood, sleep, memory, etc. Serotonin is produced in the hippocampus, a structure deep in the brain, and is released throughout the entire brain. When serotonin levels are lower than usual, there will be negative alterations in mood, sleep regulation, and other areas. Studies have noted that the hippocampus in those with clinical depression is smaller, though it is not known why.

If you have family members with depression, the chance of you developing the condition is increased. Additionally, many risk factors have been associated with depression, including poor environment (ex. neglect, abuse, substance use), low socioeconomic status (ex. poverty, inadequate education), and physiological and psychological comorbidity; meaning you are more likely to develop depression alongside other mental or chronic illnesses.

Generally, the best treatment for depression is a combination of medication and psychotherapy, though these can be used on their own. The most common prescription for depression is SSRIs and SNRIs (antidepressants).

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) , serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) are antidepressants and work to increase serotonin levels in the brain. SNRIs also increase levels of norepinephrine, which raises your energy levels and alertness.

The effects and causes of depression are still being researched; however, it is known that depression is primarily related to low serotonin levels in the brain.

In addition, studies focusing on the long-term effects of chronic depression may evidence brain atrophy which is the degeneration of neurons and the ultimate shrinking of neural structures.

Depression is a mood disorder and falls into the category of mental illness. Other mental illnesses include anxiety disorders, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, stress/trauma disorders, etc.
 
Though the terms illness, condition, disorder, and disease are often used interchangeably, they all have slightly different meanings. Disease is the most specific term of the four. It refers to abnormal functioning due to a pathophysiological change, meaning that the body’s cellular structures have been damaged, altered, or matured incorrectly.
 
In contrast, a disorder is characterized by impaired functioning of the body structures though there is no pathophysiological change. Both conditions result in signs and symptoms and are therefore used synonymously.
 
The key takeaway is that a disease can be measured, whereas a disorder usually cannot. In the case of depression, the chemicals in the brain that are used to regulate proper functioning, called neurotransmitters, are produced in varying amounts and lead to mood disruption.
 
Comparatively, Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia, is believed to be caused by a build-up of proteins that damage neurons; over time, the brain will begin to atrophy (degenerate). Improper chemical production is not a pathophysiological change, whereas the death of brain tissue is.
 
Mental conditions are often referred to as illnesses rather than disorders because the experience is subjective, including decreased mood, feelings of despair and loneliness, self-isolation, fearfulness, etc.
 
If you are experiencing a mood disorder like depression or are struggling with any other mental health concerns or drug addictions, Marcellus can help you. With our broad range of services targeting mental wellness, we can guarantee optimal care under our exceptional physicians and medical team.

If you are seeking a diagnosis or treatment for a mental illness, please do not hesitate to give our office a call to have an appointment booked as soon as possible.
 
Otherwise, we offer appointment bookings online anytime at your convenience. We are eager to hear from you and guide you in your journey to improved mental health. We serve patients from Rockville Centre NY, Brooklyn NY, Queens NY, Staten Island NY, Manhattan NY, Bronx NY and surrounding areas.