Question 1

What causes depression?

Accepted Answer

Depression results from a combination of genetic vulnerability, brain chemistry, and life circumstances. Family history increases risk, but many people develop depression without genetic factors. Stressful life events, trauma, medical conditions, and chronic stress all contribute. Understanding the cause matters less than finding treatment that works.

Question 2

How long does depression treatment take?

Accepted Answer

Medication typically takes 4-6 weeks to show improvement, with full benefits at 8-12 weeks. Therapy often requires 2-3 months before significant change occurs. Most people need treatment for at least 6-12 months, even after feeling better, to prevent relapse.

Question 3

Will I be on medication forever?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Some people need medication long-term to prevent recurrence, especially after multiple depressive episodes. Others successfully discontinue medication after symptoms resolve and stabilize. We monitor your progress and make these decisions together based on your history and response to treatment.

Question 4

Can therapy alone help depression?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for mild to moderate depression, therapy alone can be highly effective. Severe depression typically responds better to combined medication and therapy. We'll help you understand which approach makes sense for your situation—no pressure either way.

Question 5

What if I've tried treatment before and it didn't work?

Accepted Answer

Many factors affect treatment response—wrong medication, insufficient dose, inadequate therapy duration, or undiagnosed conditions interfering with improvement. We take a fresh look, try different approaches, and don't give up until we find what works for you.

Question 6

Is depression genetic?

Accepted Answer

Family history increases risk, but genetics aren't destiny. Having relatives with depression makes you more vulnerable, but environmental factors and life circumstances also play major roles. Even with genetic risk, treatment works.

Question 7

What if I'm worried about someone else?

Accepted Answer

If someone you care about shows signs of depression—persistent sadness, withdrawal, loss of interest, sleep or appetite changes, talking about hopelessness—encourage them to seek evaluation. We can help you understand how to approach this conversation and what support looks like.

Question 8

Is depression treatment confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Everything discussed with our providers is protected by HIPAA and kept strictly confidential, with rare exceptions for immediate safety concerns.

Frequently asked questions