Depression Treatment & Support

Depression is more than feeling sad. It is a serious mood disorder that affects how you think, feel, and handle daily activities. At Ascend Psychiatry & Therapy in Tukwila, Washington, we provide comprehensive treatment to help you recover and regain your quality of life.

What is Depression?

Depression, also known as Major Depressive Disorder, is a medical condition that causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can affect your sleep, appetite, energy levels, concentration, and ability to function at work or in relationships. Depression is not a sign of weakness, and it is not something you can simply snap out of. It requires professional treatment.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression can manifest differently from person to person. Common symptoms include persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood lasting most of the day, loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities, significant weight loss or gain, insomnia or sleeping too much, fatigue and decreased energy, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. If you are experiencing several of these symptoms for two weeks or more, it is important to seek professional help.

Types of Depression We Treat

Our practice treats several forms of depression including Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia), Seasonal Affective Disorder, Postpartum Depression, and depression co-occurring with anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health conditions.

Our Treatment Approach

Ethiopia Zerfu, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a holistic approach to depression treatment. After a thorough psychiatric evaluation, your personalized treatment plan may include antidepressant medication carefully selected for your specific symptoms and health profile, regular medication management appointments to monitor effectiveness and side effects, therapeutic strategies and coping skills, and coordination with therapists or other providers for comprehensive care.

You Are Not Alone

Depression can make you feel isolated, but help is available. We serve patients across Washington State through both in-person appointments in Tukwila and secure telepsychiatry visits. Taking the first step to reach out is often the hardest part, and we are here to support you through your journey to recovery.