Depression Specialist

Revîv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center

Psychiatrist located in Fullerton, CA

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, the United Nations health agency today reported, estimating that it affects more than 300 million people worldwide – the majority of them women, young people and the elderly. Depression affects an estimated one in 15 adults (6.7%) in any given year. And one in six people (16.6%) will experience Depression at some time in their life. Depression can strike at any time, but on average, first appears during the late teens to mid-20s. Women are more likely than men to experience Depression. Some studies show that one-third of women will experience a major depressive episode in their lifetime.

714-868-8514

Depression Q & A

Why do I have Depression?

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. For some, major depressive episodes can become so severe they have difficulty performing their regular daily activities.

Several factors can play a role in Depression:

Biochemistry: Differences in certain chemicals in the brain may contribute to symptoms of Depression.
Genetics: Depression can run in families. For example, if one identical twin has Depression, the other has a 70 percent chance of having the illness sometime in life.
Personality: People with low self-esteem, who are easily overwhelmed by stress, or who are generally pessimistic appear to be more likely to experience Depression.
Environmental factors: Continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may make some people more vulnerable to Depression. Going through a significant life change (for example, being diagnosed with cancer or having a car accident) can also be a risk factor.

What are the symptoms of Depression?

Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:

Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
Loss of energy or increased fatigue
Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others)
Feeling worthless or guilty
Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms must last at least two weeks for a diagnosis of Depression.

Also, medical conditions (e.g., thyroid problems, a brain tumor or vitamin deficiency) can mimic symptoms of Depression so it is important to rule out general medical causes. Dr. Sidhu can help treat your depressive episode, so you can get back to living your life to the fullest.

How is Depression treated?

Dr. Sidhu spends time clarifying your diagnosis, so you can get the proper treatment to get through Depression. She uses the bio-psychosocial model, addressing not only the psychological factors but also social and biological contributors to your Depression. Antidepressant medications improve the way your brain uses certain chemicals that control your mood or stress. While antidepressants are highly effective, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Sidhu might need to try different medications or dosages — over a period of several weeks or months — to see which one works best for you. Many Depression sufferers benefit from Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which is a noninvasive treatment for improving your moods. TMS is FDA approved and covered by insurance for treatment-resistant Depression (Depression that has not responded to medications & psychotherapy). Also, because Dr. Sidhu believes in Functional Medicine and that your overall physical health and well-being play a role in recovering from Depression, she also focuses on your diet, exercise, and daily activities.

If you’re struggling with Depression, book an evaluation at Revîv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center. You can use the online scheduling system or call the clinic.

What we offer