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DEPRESSION
PSYCHIATRY
Depression
Treatment & Support
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in Ireland, affecting approximately 1 in 6 people during their lifetime. The encouraging reality is that depression responds very well to treatment. Through professional care, medication, and counselling, many people achieve substantial improvement in their symptoms.
DEPRESSION
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ATTENTION-DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER
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Physical symptoms of depression
Depression often shows up in your body in ways you might not expect. Common physical symptoms include persistent fatigue that rest doesn't seem to fix, significant changes in sleep patterns (either sleeping too much or struggling with insomnia), and noticeable shifts in appetite or weight.
You might also experience unexplained aches and pains, headaches, digestive issues, or a general feeling of physical heaviness. Some people notice slowed movements or speech, while others feel restless and unable to sit still. These physical symptoms are real and can be just as debilitating as emotional ones.
Emotional and mental symptoms
Depression affects how you think and feel in profound ways. You might experience persistent sadness, emptiness, or a sense of hopelessness that feels overwhelming. Many people lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, struggle with feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, and find it hard to concentrate or make decisions.
Your thoughts might become more negative or self-critical, and you may feel emotionally numb or disconnected from others. Some people experience increased irritability or anger, while others feel anxious alongside their depression. Memory problems and difficulty focusing are also common, making work or daily tasks feel much harder than usual.
When to seek help
It's time to reach out for professional help when depression symptoms persist for more than two weeks and start affecting your ability to function in daily life. If you're struggling at work or school, withdrawing from relationships, or finding it hard to take care of basic needs, these are important signs that support could make a difference.
Seek immediate help if you're having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, feeling completely hopeless, or if concerned friends or family have urged you to get support. Remember, you don't have to wait until things become severe - early intervention often leads to better outcomes and can prevent symptoms from worsening.
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Understanding
depression
What is depression?
Depression goes beyond temporary sadness - it's persistent feelings of hopelessness or loss of interest that genuinely interfere with your ability to live your life. It touches everything: your work, relationships, sleep, and how your body feels.
Depression isn't one-size-fits-all. Mild depression might feel like carrying emotional weight that makes joy harder to find. Moderate depression can seriously affect your performance at work or school, while severe depression can make even getting out of bed feel overwhelming.
How can a psychiatrist help with depression?
A psychiatrist offers a space where you can talk about your depression openly, without worry about being judged. They're trained to spot patterns and symptoms you might not realize are connected, then work with you to create a treatment approach that actually fits your life.
This isn't just about one appointment - it's an ongoing partnership. Your psychiatrist will stay involved, checking how you're doing and making changes when something isn't working as well as it could be.
Medication Management
Antidepressants can be genuinely helpful for many people, but they're not the right choice for everyone. Your psychiatrist will look at your specific symptoms, your health history, and what feels right for you before recommending anything. The most common types are SSRIs and SNRIs.
Finding what works takes time - medications typically need several weeks to show their full effect, and everyone responds differently. Your psychiatrist will keep a close eye on how you're doing and make adjustments along the way. Staying consistent with medication, even when you're feeling better, helps maintain that stability.
ATTENTION-DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER
Signs & symptoms
of depression
DEPRESSION
Common types
of depression
Major Depressive Disorder
Major Depressive Disorder involves intense feelings of sadness and loss of interest that significantly disrupt daily life for at least two weeks. This is the most common form of depression, featuring overwhelming sadness, exhaustion, concentration problems, and serious impacts on work and relationships.
People with MDD often struggle with basic daily tasks and may feel hopeless or worthless. The severity of symptoms makes it difficult to function normally in personal, social, or professional settings.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
Persistent Depressive Disorder, also called dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression lasting two years or longer. While symptoms are typically milder than major depression, the long-term nature creates ongoing struggles with mood, energy, and self-worth.
This condition often feels like a constant emotional weight that never fully lifts. People may function day-to-day but experience persistent low mood, fatigue, and decreased enjoyment in life over extended periods.
Bipolar Depression
Bipolar depression refers to the depressive episodes that occur within bipolar disorder, alternating with manic or hypomanic periods. These depressive phases can be particularly intense, involving severe feelings of worthlessness, extreme fatigue, and decision-making difficulties.
The contrast between these low periods and previous elevated moods can be especially challenging. Bipolar depression often requires different treatment approaches than other forms of depression due to the cycling nature of the condition.
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01
Initial
Assessment
Connect with your provider via online video conference to talk about your concerns, discuss your goals, and receive a comprehensive clinical diagnosis.
02
Explore your care
and treatment options
Your provider will walk you through different evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, medication options, or a combination of both.
03
On-going medication
management
Meet with your provider every 4–5 weeks to review your progress, monitor how you’re feeling, and discuss any necessary adjustments to your medication.
04
Feel
the results
With your clinician regularly monitoring your progress throughout your care, three out of four clients see major symptom improvement in less than three months.
Find the right provider as soon as tomorrow.
Feeling better starts with finding the right provider. We make that connection easy, helping you find industry-leading psychiatrists who fit your unique needs and preferences.
"The help I got from Nuvirtis has made such a difference. In just one week, I’ve felt more supported than I have in years. It finally feels like I have the right guidance and treatment to start moving forward."
David, Co.Dublin
"After months on waiting-lists, my husband’s mental health hit crisis point. Nuvirtis saw him in two days, reviewed his medication, and the impact has been life-changing. We’re incredibly thankful."
Aishling, Co. Galway
"I just had my first medication appointment with my psychiatrist Shauna after being diagnosed with ADHD and I wanted to say how lovely the experience was. She was so kind, patient, and really listened. I usually find these kinds of appointments really stressful but she made me feel completely at ease and genuinely cared for. It meant a lot.
Lucy, Co. Dublin
Frequently asked questions
What is the most effective treatment for depression?
The most effective treatment for depression typically combines psychotherapy and medication, tailored to each individual's specific needs and circumstances. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and antidepressant medications like SSRIs have shown strong evidence of effectiveness when used together. For mild to moderate depression, therapy alone can be highly effective, while severe depression often responds best to a combination approach. Your Nuvirtis clinician will work with you to determine the optimal treatment plan based on your symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences. Regular monitoring and adjustments ensure the best possible outcomes.
Can depression be inherited?
Yes, depression can have a genetic component. Research indicates that having a first-degree relative with depression increases your risk by approximately 2-3 times compared to the general population. However, genetics represent only one piece of the puzzle—environmental factors, life experiences, and brain chemistry all play significant roles in depression development. Many people with a family history of depression never develop the condition, while others with no family history do. Understanding your family history can help inform treatment decisions and prevention strategies.
Can I live a full life despite my depression?
Absolutely. With proper treatment and support, the vast majority of people with depression lead fulfilling, productive lives. Depression is highly treatable, and many individuals experience significant improvement in their symptoms and overall quality of life. Success in careers, meaningful relationships, and personal achievements are all possible with effective management. The key is working with mental health professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, maintaining consistent care, and building strong support networks. Recovery is not only possible but expected with appropriate treatment.
Is depression considered a disability?
Depression can be considered a disability when it significantly impairs major life activities such as working, concentrating, sleeping, or interacting with others. Under disability legislation, individuals with severe depression may qualify for workplace accommodations or disability benefits if their condition substantially limits their ability to function. The determination depends on the severity of symptoms, duration of the condition, and how it impacts daily functioning. Many people with depression continue working with appropriate treatment and reasonable accommodations, while others may need temporary or long-term support.
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