Depression Specialist

Psychiatrist located in Fairfax, VA, Alexandria, VA, Washington, DC

Renowned physician Dr. Ifeanyi Olele provides screening, diagnosis, and treatment of depression at Genesis Psychiatric Solutions in Fairfax, VA, Alexandria, VA, Washington, DC. Untreated depression can have an impact on every aspect of a person’s life, from private to professional. Dr. Olele takes pride in helping patients improve their physical, mental, and emotional health through comprehensive treatment. Call the office or book an appointment online to learn more about your options for overcoming depression. Genesis Psychiatric Solutions also offers telemedicine services to patients.

Depression Q & A

What is depression?

Depression is often a result of a chemical brain imbalance. It affects the patient’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and dramatically impacts his or her ability to function and enjoy life.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

The most common symptoms of depression include the following when they last for more than two weeks:

Depressed mood every day
Decreased pleasure in activities
Disrupted sleep patterns
Appetite changes
Weight loss or gain
Restlessness
Anxiety
Fatigue
Unfounded guilt
Feeling helpless, worthless, or hopeless
Inhibited ability to think, concentrate, or make decisions
Suicidal thoughts

For a patient to be diagnosed with major depression they must experience at least five of these symptoms for a minimum of two weeks.

Is depression a normal part of grieving?

Sadness is a normal part of grieving, but sadness that is persistent and debilitating may be a sign of depression. Depression should always be taken seriously and evaluation by a qualified professional should be sought, even after experiencing the death of a loved one.

A mental health professional can help the patient determine whether their symptoms are indicative of the normal grieving process or something more serious, like depression.

Who is most prone to depression?

Depression is a complex disease that can affect anyone. Those at highest risk are those who:

Are genetically predisposed to the condition
Have an immediate family member diagnosed with clinical depression
Have experienced the loss of a loved one, through death, divorce, or other means
Have been physically, sexually, or emotionally abused in the past
Are experiencing a major life event, like getting married or moving
Abuse drugs or alcohol
Suffer from an unrelated serious illness

Other personal problems, like stress at work or traumatic situations, can contribute to depression in individuals who are predisposed to the condition.

How is depression treated?

Most patients are treated using a combination of treatments. Some of the most common treatment methods include:

Talk therapy with an experienced therapist who can help the patient uncover and work through relationships, behaviors, or problems that contribute to depression
Lifestyle changes shown to improve the symptoms of depression, like exercise, diet changes, and the reduction of alcohol consumption
Medications and supplements

Treatment is customized based on the unique circumstances of each case. If you’ve been living with depression, call or make an appointment online today with Genesis Psychiatric Solutions in Fairfax, VA, Alexandria, VA, Washington, DC. If you’re outside of Virginia, be sure to ask about available telepsychiatry services.