Understanding Depression
Depression affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It’s not a sign of weakness and it’s not something you can simply “snap out of.” Depression is a medical condition that responds to proper treatment — and at MindMED, we approach it with the seriousness and compassion it deserves.
Whether you’ve been struggling for months or years, or you’re noticing symptoms for the first time, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Types of Depression We Treat
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — Persistent sadness, loss of interest, and difficulty functioning lasting two weeks or more
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) — A chronic, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more
- Treatment-Resistant Depression — Depression that hasn’t responded adequately to previous medication trials
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — Depression with a seasonal pattern, typically worsening in fall and winter
- Perinatal Depression — Depression during pregnancy or after childbirth (see our perinatal psychiatry page)
- Bipolar Depression — Depressive episodes as part of bipolar disorder, requiring specialized treatment
Our Approach to Treating Depression
Dr. Fredes takes an integrative approach to depression treatment, starting with a comprehensive 60–90 minute evaluation. We look beyond symptoms to understand contributing factors like sleep quality, nutrition, thyroid function, vitamin deficiencies, and life circumstances.
Medication Management
- First-line treatments including SSRIs, SNRIs, and newer medications
- Augmentation strategies for treatment-resistant cases
- Careful dosing with regular monitoring
- Lab work to check thyroid, vitamin D, B12, and other factors
- Genetic testing considerations when appropriate
Integrative Care
- Sleep hygiene assessment and optimization
- Exercise prescriptions supported by research
- Nutritional guidance and supplement review
- Light therapy recommendations for seasonal patterns
- Coordination with your therapist for comprehensive care
Important note: MindMED provides psychiatric medication management, not standalone therapy. We offer integrated psychotherapy when it complements medication management. If you need therapy alone, we can recommend excellent therapists in the area.
Insurance & Pricing
We accept major insurance plans to make depression treatment accessible:
✓ Aetna
✓ BCBSTX
✓ Cigna
✓ Oscar Health
✓ United Healthcare
Self-pay options and superbills for out-of-network reimbursement are also available. View full pricing details →
When to Seek Help for Depression
Consider reaching out if you’re experiencing:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness lasting more than two weeks
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Significant changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or completing daily tasks
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
You don’t need to wait until things feel unbearable. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.