When Does Depression Require Professional Intervention?

Feeling a little blue from time to time is a normal (if unfortunate) part of the human experience. But when sad or hopeless feelings persist for a long time or don’t have a concrete and identifiable cause, it could be something more than the blues: it could be clinical depression. In fact, roughly one-fifth of Americans report being diagnosed with depression — a historically high number.

At her practice in Baltimore, Maryland, Temika Heyward, PhD, FNP, CRNP, PMH, uses proven diagnostic criteria combined with a thorough review of your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors to diagnose depression so it can be managed — and you can feel better. Here’s how to tell when you should seek treatment with the team at Conduit Behavioral Health.

Persistent sadness

One of the clearest ways to differentiate between depression and “just” feeling blue is by considering the duration of your symptoms. In depression, feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and even guilt or shame last for weeks, months, or even years. 

These feelings can’t be shaken off, and they won’t get better — and stay better — by thinking positive or “counting your blessings” (regardless of what well-meaning loved ones may advise). Instead, they’re driven by chemical changes in your brain — a real, physiological problem that requires medical treatment to correct.

Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy

Depression often affects even the simplest habits, like your sleep patterns or your eating habits. You may notice you feel like sleeping all the time, although it might not always be easy to fall asleep or stay asleep. Your appetite (and sometimes weight) could increase or decrease, as well.

In turn, poor sleep can lead to low energy levels, or you might feel fatigued no matter how much sleep you get. These shifts can create a cycle that makes your symptoms worse and makes it harder to cope overall. Seeking help can break this pattern, giving you tools and treatment options to restore balance and support your recovery.

Difficulty functioning at work, home, or socially

If your depression is interfering with your day-to-day activities, that’s definitely a sign you should explore professional treatment. Tasks and activities that once felt manageable may now feel overwhelming, and hanging out with friends may feel exhausting instead of fun.

These changes can affect relationships, job performance, and overall stability, in turn making your depression symptoms even worse. Dr. Heyward focuses treatment on the root cause of depression, so you can feel — and function — better.

Thoughts of hopelessness, guilt, or self-harm

Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, shame, guilt, or thoughts of self-harm always require immediate professional intervention. These symptoms indicate your depression has reached a level where safety and urgent support are top priorities.

Reaching out for help is a critically important first step on your journey to a healthier — and yes, happier — life. With prompt care, you can receive the resources and treatment needed to stay safe and begin healing.

Symptoms don’t improve with time

If you’ve tried coping strategies like getting more rest, increasing your social activities, or managing stress more effectively but still feel “stuck”, that’s another clear indicator that it’s time to seek medical treatment. 

Dr. Heyward works with you to map out a treatment plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and other factors. Regular check-ins ensure your plan stays on track and remains effective for you, providing ample opportunity to refine and fine-tune treatment for real results.

You deserve to feel better

Depression can feel overwhelming and interminable, but there are real, effective solutions — and you don’t have to suffer. To learn how we can create a treatment plan that works for you, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Heyward and the team at Conduit Behavioral Health in Baltimore, Maryland, today.