Recognizing depression
Depression is more than feeling sad. It is a medical condition that affects mood, thinking, energy, sleep, and the ability to enjoy life. Common signs include persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of death.
Depression in children and adolescents
In young people, depression often shows up as irritability, anger, withdrawal from friends, declining grades, or physical complaints rather than obvious sadness. Adolescent depression deserves prompt, careful attention. Our child and adolescent psychiatry services include thorough safety assessment and close collaboration with parents.
Depression in adults
Adults may experience depression after a stressful life event, alongside anxiety or a medical condition, during pregnancy or after childbirth, or without any clear trigger. Depression can also be one part of a bipolar or other mood disorder, which is why a careful diagnosis matters.
How we treat depression
- A comprehensive evaluation, including mood history, medical factors, and safety
- Antidepressant or other medication when appropriate, with regular follow-up
- Supportive psychotherapy and psychoeducation
- Coordination with therapists and primary care providers
- A plan for what to do if symptoms worsen
If you are in crisis
If you or your child is having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room. ClarityPoint does not provide emergency services.
Care close to home
Care is provided by Vivienne Gomes, M.D., Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Emmanuel Sango, DNP, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You can see us in person at our office at 18310 Montgomery Village Ave in Gaithersburg, or by secure video if you are located in Maryland at the time of your appointment. See telepsychiatry in Maryland.