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What is Depression?
Depression (often referred to as major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It not only affects how you feel, but it can also change how you think and behave, causing a variety of emotional and physical problems. It can even affect your sleeping and eating habits.
Many people with depression struggle to perform their usual day-to-day activities, and for some, can feel suicidal or like there is no reason to keep living. It’s why seeking treatment as soon as possible is vital. Treatment typically looks like medication, therapy, or some combination of the two. When left untreated, depression can become worse.
Patient
Testimonial
“I cannot recommend Dr. Colleen McGuire highly enough. She has been an incredible support in helping me manage my mental health, and her care has truly been life-changing. From the very beginning, she created a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where I felt heard, valued, and understood.”
Symptoms of Depression
The symptoms that come with depression can differ from person to person, but there are some signs that are more common than others, including:
- Sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness
- Irritability, anxiety, or frustration
- Loss of interest in activities you used to love or find pleasure in
- Sleep disturbances
- Lack of energy
- Reduced or increased appetite
- Memory problems
- Suicidal thoughts and feelings
- Unexplained physical symptoms like back and neck pain, headaches, or sexual dysfunction
Risk Factors for Depression
While depression can affect anyone, there are some risk factors that make some people more susceptible or at risk than others. Some of the risk factors include certain personality traits (like low self-esteem), traumatic or stressful events in your life, a family history of depression, bipolar disorder, or suicide, and a history of other mental health disorders. Alcohol or drug abuse, chronic illness, and certain medications can also make you more at risk for depression than others.
Depression Treatment Options
There are many highly-effective treatments for depression. At Cottonwood Psychiatry, we offer both therapy (including a few different kinds) and medication management.
Medication
Medication can be an incredibly effective tool for treating depression. They change the chemistry in your brain, but how they work exactly can depend on the type of antidepressant prescribed. Some of the options include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants. When you meet with Dr. McGuire, she will walk you through your options and, after talking with you and reviewing your history, determine if medication is the right treatment option for you.
Therapy
Therapy can truly work wonders to help people struggling with depression. By helping our clients work through their thoughts, rethink their thoughts and behaviors, and change their thought patterns, Dr. McGuire helps alleviate some of the symptoms of depression and allows her clients to live full lives.
At Cottonwood Psychiatry, Dr. McGuire offers a number of different therapy approaches. Which one is right for you will depend on your unique needs. With everything from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to psychodynamic therapy, Dr. McGuire will determine the right approach for you.
FAQs about Depression
What symptoms might suggest I need professional help for depression?
How does Cottonwood Psychiatry approach depression treatment?
Are there non-medication options for treating depression?
What can I expect during my first depression appointment at Cottonwood Psychiatry?
Does Cottonwood Psychiatry treat co-occurring depression and anxiety?
Schedule a Consultation
Don’t struggle on your own. With her years of experience offering compassionate care, Dr. McGuire is here to help you find the relief you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a consultation today, don’t hesitate to call our Denver office or message us via our online contact form.
Dr. Colleen McGuire
Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine specializing in Psychiatry with a background in Anthropology and Music from the University of New Mexico, pre-med studies in Denver, and a medical degree from Touro University in California. She completed her residency at the University of Colorado, serving as Chief Resident, and has held key roles such as Attending Psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Denver Health, as well as working in various inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry settings. Dr. McGuire specializes in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, utilizing therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Known for her empathetic, client-centered approach and strong collaborative relationships, she is licensed in multiple states and enjoys mentoring nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Outside of work, she is a classical pianist, swimmer, and animal lover who values personal growth and creativity.
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Start your journey toward the life you’ve always wanted with the help of Dr. McGuire at Cottonwood Psychiatry, and contact us today. Fill out our contact form below.
Please note that we do not do after-hours calls. If you are in an emergency situation please call an emergency hotline.
Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a holistic approach to mental health. She completed her medical training at Touro University and residency at the University of Colorado, where she served as Chief Resident. Specializing in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, Dr. McGuire integrates therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Licensed in multiple states, she is known for her empathetic, client-centered care and dedication to mentoring. Outside work, she enjoys piano, swimming, and spending time with animals.