Depression Treatment in Atlanta, Georgia
Dr. Bryon McQuirt
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bryon McQuirt
Last Updated on:
November 21, 2024
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Depression is a serious condition and it can be hard to determine when inpatient depression treatment is needed.
Those who experience depression and depressive symptoms generally experience a reduced quality of life without depression professional help.
At Peachtree Wellness Solutions, our Atlanta depression treatment team of Master’s Level clinicians and expert mental health professionals have years of experience in treating various depressive disorders including complex diagnoses such as dysthymia, treatment-resistant depression, persistent-depressive disorder, and dual-diagnosis and co-occurring disorders.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder where a person feels sad, hopeless, worthless, a lack of motivation, and can no longer find enjoyment in their life. While everyone can experience depression at some point in their life, when symptoms persist for more than two weeks and do not improve, then it is time to get concerned.
Depression is not something people can easily get over. It can interfere with school, work, family life, relationships, and daily responsibilities. It can also impact individuals physically, such as changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and physical pain and discomfort. Some people also turn to illicit substances and alcohol to help bring temporary relief while running the risk of developing a dual diagnosis or substance use disorder.
According to NIMH, about 21 million adults in the U.S. have at least one major depressive episode annually.
Recommended: Take Our “Am I Depressed” Quiz
You are not alone. You deserve to get help.
Peachtree Wellness is an industry leader in mental health treatment. Our team of top medical experts specialize in dual diagnosis treatment and are committed to ensuring that each patient is treated as an individual. Call us today, we’re available 24/7.
Types of Depression We Treat
Treatment-Resistant Depression
Despite trying multiple depression treatments, those suffering from TRD often find themselves stuck in a cycle of despair.
Postpartum Depression
Our structured postpartum depression treatment helps women overcome their illness and establish a healthy pattern of being a new mother.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically occurring during the fall and winter months.
How Our Depression Treatment in Atlanta Works
At Peachtree Wellness Solutions, we offer various levels of care to support individuals wherever they’re at on their recovery journey. Each level of care is designed with the complex needs of each client in mind, fully staffed by Master’s Level Clinicians, MDs and Behavioral Health Technicians.
From intensive and round-the-clock monitoring, to outpatient levels of care, our team can help recommend the most appropriate program.
Inpatient & Residential Treatment
Our residential treatment program provides round-the-clock monitoring and support. It is designed for people with severe depressive symptoms who are unable to function normally and individuals who could harm themselves or others. This level of care is also well-suited for people with dual-diagnosis conditions and those without a supportive home environment.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our Partial Hospitalization Program provides the same level of intensity and structure as our inpatient & residential program. The only difference is that people can return home in the evenings or to a supportive living facility. This level of care is ideal as a step down from our residential program or for those who do not need 24/7 monitoring and support.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a step-down level of care from our PHP. It offers more flexibility and freedom as people continue to transition back into their everyday routines. IOPs allow people to attend work or school or manage other personal responsibilities and commitments while still receiving intensive depression treatment. It is also well-suited for those with mild to moderate depressive symptoms who need intensive therapy and support but do not need full-day PHPs.
Outpatient Rehab Program
Our Outpatient Program (OP) is the last level of care and a step down from our IOP. It is designed for people who need ongoing depression treatment ranging from once a week to several times weekly. It provides the most freedom and flexibility of all outpatient programs and is for those who have completed a higher level of care or those with mild depressive symptoms with a strong support system at home. We only admit into outpatient programming on a case-by-case basis.
Signs and Symptoms Someone May Need Depression Treatment
Emotional Symptoms
Emotional symptoms of depression are often the most apparent and deeply felt, profoundly affecting someone’s inner life and overall mood. These include the following:
- Persistent sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities like hobbies, social interactions, and everyday tasks
- Overwhelming feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Feeling worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Irritability and frustration
These emotional disturbances create a cycle of negativity that can be difficult to break without professional help, impacting all areas of life and contributing to the overall burden of depression.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms of depression often manifest in ways that may seem unrelated to emotional health at first glance. Common physical indicators include the following:
- Significant changes in appetite
- Unexpected weight loss or gain
- Sleep disturbances like insomnia, restless sleep, or excessive sleeping
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Unexplained aches, pains, or gastrointestinal problems
These physical symptoms can be misleading, as they might suggest various medical conditions, but when coupled with emotional and cognitive signs, they can strongly indicate the presence of depression.
Behavioral Symptoms
Behavioral symptoms of depression are outward signs that can significantly disrupt an individual’s life and relationships, such as:
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home,
- Difficulty keeping up with daily tasks and commitments
- Substance abuse in an attempt to self-medicate
Recognizing these behavioral patterns is crucial for identifying depression and seeking appropriate depression treatment.
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive symptoms of depression significantly impair daily functioning. These symptoms include the following:
- Problems with concentration
- Difficulty focusing on tasks or following conversations
- Memory issues
- Problems with decision making
- Negative thought patterns
In severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide may occur, indicating an urgent need for professional intervention. These cognitive impairments can erode self-confidence and exacerbate feelings of worthlessness, further deepening the depression.
Causes of Depression
Depression can impact anyone, no matter their age or gender. Yet certain risk factors for depression can increase the risk of developing this mental health disorder, which include:
- Substance use disorders: Abusing alcohol and drugs can trigger underlying mental health issues, including depression, or contribute toward their development. While alcohol and drugs may bring temporary relief from depressive symptoms, it actually exacerbates in the long run.
- Family history: Having a family history of mental health disorders, depression, or substance use disorders can increase the risks of developing one.
- Individual history: Having previous mental health issues or substance use disorders can increase the risk of developing depression.
- Childhood trauma and abuse: If someone experiences trauma and abuse as a child that has not been resolved, there is a high likelihood that depression could develop later in life.
- Excessive stress: Exposure to trauma, relationship issues, loss of a loved one, and financial issues can all trigger depressive symptoms and lead to depression in certain individuals.
- Chronic conditions: Chronic medical conditions, such as cancer, could be a triggering event for depression due to the added challenges and stress of managing a chronic condition.
- Personality traits: Being pessimistic, having low self-esteem, or being a perfectionist can also increase the risk of developing depression.
- Biological factors: Chemical imbalances in the brain from hormonal fluctuations, substance abuse, or genetics can increase the risk of depression.
Recommended: “Can Ozempic Cause Depression?“
Our Depression Treatment Therapies
Our depression treatment services include various forms of therapy and medication based on their needs. During therapy sessions, you can talk to our licensed therapists about your symptoms, how they impact your life, and what you want to get out of treatment. Therapy provides a safe and supportive environment where you can develop effective coping strategies and other skills for symptom management.
Some of our treatments that could be included in your personalized treatment plan are:
- Individual therapy: One-on-one sessions with a therapist to discuss issues, concerns, and other topics you are uncomfortable discussing in a group setting.
- Group therapy: Group sessions where you can develop a strong peer support network, learn from others and their experiences, and share your experiences.
- Holistic therapy: Holistic approaches, such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices, help people heal the mind, body, and spirit.
- Genetic testing: Genetic testing is beneficial when medications are being prescribed to treat depression. The test can help determine how well you will respond to a particular medication before starting it. This helps narrow down potentially effective medications.
- Red light therapy: Red light therapy uses red light wavelengths targeted at specific regions of the brain that are responsible for mood regulation. It helps improve mood, increase relaxation, and lower stress.
Other services we offer that could be included in your personalized treatment plan include:
- Family Therapy: Depression can impact everyone in your household—not just the person with symptoms. Our family therapy program helps you and your family rebuild relationships, improve communication, and resolve conflicts.
- Pet Therapy: Also called “animal-assisted therapy,” pet therapy involves interactions with pets to help reduce stress and mental health symptoms.
- Music Therapy: Our music therapists use activities like song analysis, lyric writing, and performance to help you express challenging emotions in a new way. You can also learn healthy coping skills by incorporating music in your life for stress reduction.
- Biosound Therapy: This innovative type of therapy involves relaxing on a vibrating bed while listening to binaural beats and other therapeutic sounds. Sometimes, biosound therapy also involves a visual component.
Recommended: “How to Help a Depressed Spouse: 10 Things to Do“
Are Medications Utilized During Depression Treatment?
Yes, medications can be utilized during depression treatment to help alleviate depressive symptoms and stabilize moods. The precise medications used will depend on your symptoms, severity of depression, and other factors. Some medications we utilize but are not limited to can be Celexa, Zoloft, and Lexapro. However, medication options are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Depression Statistics
Some depression statistics as reported by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) are:
- 21 million adults have at least one major depressive episode annually.
- Major depressive episodes are higher in females compared to males.
- 18 to 25-year-olds have the highest prevalence of major depressive episodes.
- 5 million 12 to 17-year-olds have at least one major depressive episode annually.
Find Help for Depression in Atlanta Today
Has your depression taken over your life, caused a loss of enjoyment, brought sadness, sorrow, and hopelessness? Take control of your depression with our depression treatment in Atlanta at Peachtree Wellness Solutions. Our compassionate and caring team provides comprehensive treatment options customized to your needs. Let us help you take the first steps to a better tomorrow with you in control of your depression.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
More on Depression
How Long Does Depression Treatment Last?
Recovery from depression is different for each person. As such, treatment can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months for our residential treatment, PHP, and IOP. Our OP treatment usually lasts much longer since it is ongoing aftercare and support.
What Happens Once Depression Treatment Is Over?
After completing a residential, PHP, or IOP, most people generally transition to a lower level of care until they only require OP treatment. Before OP treatment is over, our clients work with their therapists to develop an effective aftercare plan with ongoing support and follow-up care as needed.
How Much Does Depression Treatment Cost?
Depression treatment costs will vary depending on the level of care and services. However, most health insurance plans provide coverage for depression treatment. Please feel free to contact our admissions specialist to discuss your insurance coverage and mental health benefits.
The Biology of Depression
Depression causes changes in the brain’s chemistry and structure the longer it goes untreated. Most often, neurotransmitters, natural chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood, are affected and not released normally. The reduction in dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine results in an imbalance and causes depressive symptoms.
In addition, studies have shown various regions of the brain look differently for people with depression. Some of the differences can be attributed to excess cortisol, which is released when exposed to excessive anxiety and stress for a prolonged period.
If You are in need of immediate assistance...
Contact us immediately if you are in need of assistance. In the case of a medical emergency please contact 911.
We Work With Most Major Insurance
Most major health insurance plans with out-of-network benefits can help cover most of the costs of our program. Click below to find out your mental health coverage and treatment options.
