Depression

When getting through the day takes everything you have, and you struggle to find joy or motivation, depression may be the reason. At Life Balance Health, board-certified nurse practitioner Patrick Ollar, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, provides telehealth depression care for adults across California, Nevada, and Oregon. He takes time to understand what’s contributing to your symptoms and builds a treatment plan around your specific needs. Call today to schedule your consultation or book online to get started.

What is depression?

Depression is a medical condition that affects how your brain regulates mood, energy, and motivation. It involves changes in brain chemistry and tends to persist and often worsens over time.

Fortunately, depression responds well to treatment.

What are the different types of depression?

The most common types include:

Major depressive disorder

Major depressive disorder (MDD) involves persistent low mood, loss of interest in daily activities, and a range of physical and emotional symptoms that last at least two weeks.

Persistent depressive disorder

Persistent depressive disorder, also called dysthymia, is a chronic, lower-grade depression that lasts two years or longer. 

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression develops after childbirth and involves significant mood changes, anxiety, and difficulty bonding.

Seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly emerging in fall and winter when daylight hours decrease and lifting in spring.

Are there common depression symptoms?

Depression affects your mind, body, and daily functioning. You might notice:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Talk to Patrick if symptoms persist for two weeks or longer.

Who is most likely to have depression?

Depression rarely traces back to a single cause. Contributing factors include:

• Genetics and family history of mood disorders
• Brain chemistry and neurotransmitter imbalances
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause
• Chronic stress, grief, or significant life changes
• Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or chronic pain
• Nutritional deficiencies in vitamin D, B vitamins, or omega-3 fatty acids

Identifying your specific contributing factors allows Patrick to build a treatment plan with a stronger foundation.

How is depression treated?

Your treatment plan at Life Balance Health may include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation 
• Medication management using antidepressants or other evidence-based options tailored to your history
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to address negative thought patterns
• Vitamin and hormone testing to identify and correct deficiencies that contribute to low mood
• Lifestyle guidance around sleep, physical activity, and nutrition
• Ongoing monitoring and treatment adjustments to ensure continued progress

With the right care, you can regain your energy, rebuild your motivation, and start feeling like yourself again.

Call Life Balance Health or book online to schedule your depression evaluation today.