Signs it may be time to get help
- Low mood or loss of interest that lasts most days for two weeks or more
- Changes in sleep, appetite or energy
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling worthless, guilty or hopeless
How I evaluate it
The first visit covers your symptoms, how long they have lasted, past treatments and how well they worked, medical conditions and medications, alcohol and substance use, and family history. I screen for bipolar disorder before starting an antidepressant, because the right treatment differs. We use standard rating scales such as the PHQ-9 to track progress over time.
Treatment options
- Medication chosen for your symptoms, side-effect concerns and past response
- Careful dose adjustment and a clear plan for what to try next if the first choice is not enough
- Psychotherapy within our visits, and referral for ongoing therapy when it would help
- Attention to sleep, alcohol use and medical contributors such as thyroid problems
What telehealth can and can’t do
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself and cannot keep yourself safe, telehealth is not enough. Call or text 988, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Your plan is made together at your visit.