Everyone feels down from time to time. But when sadness, emptiness, or fatigue begin to take over daily life, it may be a sign of something more. Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. At Gianan Health, we offer thoughtful, individualized care for those living with depression—because no one should have to navigate it alone.
Whether you’re experiencing your first depressive episode or have been managing symptoms for years, our team is here to help you understand your options and support your journey toward feeling better.
Understanding Depression
Depression is a medical condition that affects how you think, feel, and function. For some, depression appears gradually and quietly. For others, it arrives in the wake of a stressful event, loss, or period of change. It can disrupt sleep, energy, motivation, relationships, work performance, and even physical health.
There are different forms of depression, including:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Characterized by a low mood most of the day, nearly every day, along with other symptoms such as fatigue, loss of interest in activities, or changes in appetite or sleep.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Involves a long-term, lower-grade form of depression that lasts for two years or more.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Occurs seasonally, most commonly in winter months.
- Depression with Anxious Features: Depression and anxiety symptoms often overlap and may require a blended approach to treatment.
Depression is not a character flaw or personal weakness, it’s a real health issue that deserves care and attention.
Symptoms of Depression
Everyone experiences depression differently, but common symptoms include:
- Ongoing sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
- Low energy or constant fatigue
- Sleep disturbances (either insomnia or sleeping too much)
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness
- Withdrawal from family, friends, or responsibilities
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Even if your symptoms feel “mild,” you don’t need to wait until things get worse to seek help. Early support can make a meaningful difference.
When to Reach Out
Depression can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. You might find it hard to get out of bed, complete daily responsibilities, or even explain how you’re feeling to others. Often, people living with depression minimize their symptoms or assume they should “just push through.” But you don’t need to face this alone.
You may benefit from reaching out if:
- You feel low, numb, or disconnected most of the time
- Your relationships, work, or self-care have started to suffer
- You find it difficult to experience joy or hope
- You’ve been through multiple stressful events or losses
- You’ve tried to improve your mood, but nothing seems to help
At Gianan Health, we take your symptoms seriously, even if you’re not sure how to describe them. If something doesn’t feel right, that’s reason enough to begin a conversation.
Our Approach to Depression Treatment
There is no single way to treat depression, and no two people are exactly alike. That’s why we focus on building a care plan that reflects your specific needs, preferences, and goals. Our providers take the time to listen carefully, understand your experiences, and guide you through options that feel realistic and supportive.
Treatment at Gianan Health may include:
- Psychotherapy: Talk therapy is a powerful tool for working through emotions, identifying patterns, and learning coping skills. We use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), depending on what fits best.
- Medication Management: For some individuals, psychiatric medication plays an important role in reducing the intensity or frequency of depressive symptoms. If this option is part of your care plan, our team will walk you through the process and ensure ongoing support and monitoring.
- Additional Treatments (When Appropriate): Depending on the nature of your symptoms, additional treatments, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or Esketamine (Spravato), may be explored. These are considered thoughtfully and only recommended when clinically appropriate.
- Collaborative, Compassionate Care: We believe in partnering with you, not just treating a condition. You’ll always be involved in decisions about your care, and we’ll check in regularly to ensure that your treatment continues to reflect where you are and what you need.
What to Expect When You Begin Treatment
Starting treatment for depression can feel like a big step, especially if you’ve been carrying your symptoms quietly for a long time. Our goal is to make that step feel manageable. During your initial appointment, your provider will talk with you about your history, your current symptoms, and your goals for treatment. There’s no rush, no judgment—just space to be heard and supported.
From there, we’ll work together to decide how to move forward, whether that includes therapy, medication, both, or simply regular check-ins to begin with. You don’t have to know exactly what you need. We’ll help you figure it out at a pace that feels right.
Support for Depression in Bolingbrook, Naperville, and the Chicago Suburbs
Depression can feel isolating, but you are not alone and you are not beyond help. Many people who seek treatment begin to experience greater clarity, motivation, and emotional relief over time. Recovery may not be linear, but it is possible, and it’s worth pursuing.
At Gianan Health, we’re here to walk beside you with empathy, professionalism, and a belief in your ability to move forward. Because we believe in getting you care as soon as possible, new patients are scheduled within 1-2 weeks of reaching out. For appointments, call us today at 630-340-1620.