Depression and Major Depressive Disorders

Living with depression can feel overwhelming. At Virtua, we provide compassionate care tailored to your needs. Reaching out for help is a brave first step, and we're here to listen, support, and guide you every step of the way.

What's the difference between depression and a major depressive disorder?

Major depressive disorder (MDD), often referred to simply as depression, is more than just feeling sad. It's diagnosed as MDD when symptoms persist for at least two weeks and significantly impact daily life. Depression can affect how you feel, think, and handle everyday activities.

What are the common symptoms of depression?

Depression symptoms may include:

• Feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, helpless, guilty, pessimistic, or empty
• Loss of pleasure or interest in activities or hobbies
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep problems
• Trouble with concentration, memory, and decision-making
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Talking or moving slower than usual
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, or digestive problems that don’t respond to treatment or have no apparent physical cause 

In some cases, depression can be triggered by stressful life events, hormonal changes, or other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or cancer.

When to seek care for depression

Schedule an appointment with your Virtua Primary Care provider if you have symptoms that affect your daily life nearly every day for two or more weeks.

Types of major depressive disorders

While major depressive disorder is the general term for depression, there are several types and related conditions, including:

• Bipolar disorder: includes periods of lows (depression) and highs (mania)
• Persistent depressive disorder: depression that lasts two years or more with less severe symptoms
• Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders: depression during pregnancy and after childbirth (postpartum depression)
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often linked to reduced sunlight in the fall and winter
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): depression and irritability tied to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle
• Treatment-resistant depression: depression that hasn’t responded to medications or other therapy

At Virtua, our mental health experts diagnose and treat a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions.

How is depression diagnosed?

If you're experiencing depression symptoms, it’s important to discuss them as soon as you can with your primary care provider (PCP), who can ensure you receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Your evaluation may include:

• A physical exam
• Lab work to rule out other possible causes
• A review of your medical history, including past mental health issues
• A review of your symptoms and questions about their frequency, intensity, or possible causes

Based on your symptoms, your PCP may prescribe a medication that addresses your specific symptoms. They may also refer you to a psychologist or social worker for counseling, where you can talk about your feelings and learn coping techniques. If your symptoms don't improve with treatment, your PCP may refer you to a psychiatrist who can provide more complex care.

While depression and related disorders are common, they're very treatable–especially when diagnosed early.

Treatment for major depressive disorders at Virtua

We understand that receiving a diagnosis of depression can feel overwhelming, and we want you to know that help is available. Virtua offers personalized treatment combining medication, psychotherapy, and specialized therapies.

Behavioral Health in Virtua Primary Care

Virtua Behavioral Health offers coordinated care for Virtua Primary Care patients, conveniently placing mental health experts within Virtua primary care offices to ensure additional support when needed. This includes:

• Medication management: Ongoing monitoring to ensure your medication and dosage are relieving your symptoms
• Psychotherapy: Evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help reframe unhelpful thought patterns
• Telehealth options: Flexible virtual visits for ongoing, convenient care

Specialized care

• Brain stimulation therapies: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to relieve the symptoms of treatment-resistant depression

Our approach emphasizes patient-centered care, regular monitoring, and support for your long-term well-being. With Virtua, you can take comfort in knowing that compassionate, expert help is available and that recovery and hope are within reach.

If you're experiencing depression symptoms, it’s important to discuss them as soon as you can with your primary care provider (PCP).