Depression is a mental illness that affects over 15 million Americans each year. It is often stigmatized and brushed off as “just a bad day” and something that they can “snap out of.” Dr. Faizi Ahmed, Founder of Tampa Neuropsychiatry, wants to change how people perceive and react to depression.

Depression affects every aspect of someone’s life, but is not always visible to friends, family, or a passersby on the street. Getting out of bed in the morning becomes a struggle, social interaction turns into a burden, and finding the appetite to eat can be impossible. When basic human needs aren’t being met, it starts to take a toll on relationships, work, and even spiritual life.

The cause of depression can stem from either a genetic factor and/or an environmental factor. Psychiatry views the cause as something that is predisposed or the consequence of a stressful event. On the other hand, Neuropsychiatry views the cause as a consequence of the brain functioning abnormally.

Neuropsychiatry still questions exactly what causes the brain to function abnormally. With the complexities of the brain and the body overall, depression can often be the result of several factors. Vitamin deficiencies, stress, a brain injury, or hormonal imbalance are just a few things that can cause an overall state of depression.

How do you treat depression if you don’t know the origin? Treatment is most effective when a cause is found. Oftentimes depression is reflexively treated with ant-depressants or therapy. While this will help some people, it won’t help everyone. That is why it’s important to get a proper evaluation.

The next time a friend or family member approaches you about depression, listen to how they’re feeling with compassion.

Learn more about Tampa Neuropsychiatry!