Skip to main content
Category

Depression

Am I Stressed or Depressed?

Woman lying on bed with sad eyes.

If you’re feeling the stress pile up, you’re not alone. According to the American Psychiatric Association’s 2024 Mental Health Poll, 43% of U.S. adults are feeling more stress than the previous year (up from 37% in 2023). The economy, the results of the election and personal finances are some of the leading causes of increased stress over the past year. 

Despite a rise in stress levels, the poll found that only one in four adults said they talked with a mental health professional. While research shows that some stress is good for you, chronically-elevated stress hormones put you at greater risk for obesity, heart disease and depression. 

If you’ve been feeling stressed out, this blog will help you identify the difference between stress and depression. You’ll learn strategies for managing stress and know if it may be time to speak with a mental health professional. 

Can Stress Cause Depression?

The short answer is yes—chronic stress can be a factor that leads to depression, and depression can make stress worse. Chronic stress develops from prolonged exposure to stressful circumstances that elevates cortisol in the body to abnormally high levels. Over time, this can lead to depression, as well as other problems, including: anxiety, headaches, digestion trouble, memory and concentration problems, insomnia and heart disease.

Anxiety plays a role in the relationship between stress and depression. The effect of chronic stress on the body can lead to the development of anxiety disorders. Under the DSM-5-TR, some anxiety disorders are: 

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – when anxiety symptoms occur in a variety of environments and in response to multiple situations. Generalized anxiety symptoms are usually not attributed to a specific and known cause. 
  • Panic Disorder –when immediate and severe anxiety symptoms (aka “panic attack”) arise in response to an array of causes. These panic attacks also can happen in response to the worry of having a panic attack. 
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – when anxiety symptoms take the form of obsessive and intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors (or mentally rehearsed behaviors). 
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – when long-term anxiety symptoms develop after a trauma or in response to stimulants which trigger memories of that trauma. 

Anxiety and depression can heighten the symptoms of one another. For example, people suffering from anxiety disorders might withdraw from social situations and other life activities to avoid triggering anxiety symptoms. This withdrawal can trigger depressive episodes or intensify their symptoms. And people with depression can magnify their symptoms by pulling away from social interactions and vital activities, also leading to more anxiety. 

The Common Symptoms of Stress and Depression 

It’s not always easy to figure out if you’re dealing with stress, depression or a mix of both. If you’re trying to figure out which one you’re dealing with, know that many symptoms overlap. The chart below provides an overview of each set of symptoms to help you see what you might be experiencing.

Symptom Type Stress Depression
Emotional Feelings Irritability, frustration, or being overwhelmed Sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Energy Levels May feel heightened or anxious Constant fatigue or lack of motivation
Sleep Patterns Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep Sleeping too much or too little
Appetite Changes Eating too much or too little during stressful periods Significant, ongoing appetite changes (increase or decrease)
Interest in Activities Can still find enjoyment but may feel distracted Loss of interest in things you once loved

Understanding the difference between stress and depression can help you identify what’s going on and take the right steps forward. Stress is usually tied to specific challenges and often improves when the cause is resolved. However, chronic stress can linger and leave you feeling constantly on edge and increases your risk for physical and mental health issues.

When left unchecked, chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to depression, creating a cycle that feels hard to break.

If you’re struggling with a significant drop in energy levels and loss of interest in your life, you may have depression. Other key indicators of depression include persistent feelings of sadness and low self-esteem. 

If you’re unsure, take note of overlapping symptoms or how long they’ve lasted. When symptoms begin to negatively impact your life, it’s recommended to speak with a mental health professional. An experienced provider will evaluate your symptoms and determine an appropriate course of treatment to help you find relief. 

How to Reduce Stress in Your Life

If stress has become a constant in your life, you’re not powerless. Managing stress is about adopting habits that help you cope in healthy ways, so it doesn’t take over your life. Here are some practical strategies to help you reduce stress and regain control.

1. Pinpoint Your Triggers

Take a step back and identify what’s causing your stress. Whether it’s work deadlines, financial pressures, family dynamics, or something else, recognizing your triggers helps you approach them with a clear plan.

2. Incorporate Relaxation Practices

Stress activates your body’s fight-or-flight response. Counteract it with relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These can calm your mind and reduce physical tension.

3. Stay Physically Active

Exercise is a natural stress reliever. It releases endorphins that improve your mood and reduce the effects of stress hormones. Even a brisk 20-minute walk can make a big difference.

4. Prioritize Your Time and Set Boundaries

Feeling overwhelmed often stems from taking on too much. Learn to say no and focus on what’s most important. Setting boundaries protects your energy and prevents burnout.

5. Nurture Your Relationships

Talking to someone you trust can be incredibly healing. Spend time with supportive friends or family, or join a support group to share your experiences and feel less alone.

6. Sleep Better to Feel Better

Stress and sleep are closely linked. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, and create a calming bedtime routine to improve rest.

7. Limit Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

When stress hits, it’s tempting to rely on alcohol, overeating, or other unhealthy habits. Instead, choose activities that truly support your well-being, like journaling, reading, or spending time in nature.

8. Know When to Seek Help

If stress feels unmanageable or chronic, reaching out to a mental health professional is a strong and positive step. Therapy can provide tools and techniques to help you cope and regain balance in your life. 

Which Depression Treatment Is Right for Me?

When dealing with depression, finding the right treatment can often feel like a daunting and frustrating process. If you’ve tried antidepressants or therapy without success, you might be experiencing treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This condition can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of what to do next, but it’s important to remember that there are still effective treatment options available.

Treatment-resistant depression occurs when a person doesn’t experience relief from symptoms after trying two or more antidepressant medications. It can also occur when traditional therapy methods don’t produce the desired results. If you’re dealing with TRD, know there are alternative treatments designed to help break the cycle of chronic depression.

One of the most promising treatments for TRD is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS therapy is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Antidepressants can have negative side effects like weight gain or fatigue, which TMS therapy does not. 

At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we specialize in TMS therapy and have seen great success in helping patients who have not responded to traditional treatments. Click here to read some of the life-changing testimonials of those who’ve undergone treatment. 

Find the Right Treatment with Michigan Advanced Psychiatry 

If you’re stressed about your symptoms, know there is a path forward to relief. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we take a personalized approach to mental health care. We’ll work with you to evaluate your symptoms and determine the most effective treatment plan for your stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health condition. 

Finding the right treatment is a journey, but you can take the first step toward feeling better. If you’re located in Ann Arbor, MI, contact us today to schedule an appointment by calling (734) 436-4886. Contact our Troy, MI office by calling (248) 885-8887.

Visit our partner website in Fort Wayne, IN at advancedpsych-in.com.

Why Does My Room Make Me Depressed?

Woman sitting on bed with little sunlight.

Do you often feel a wave of sadness when you step into your room? Does your bedroom, the space meant to be your sanctuary, instead carry feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or depression? If you find yourself struggling to relax or feel at peace within your own space, you’re not alone. 

The way we experience our surroundings has a profound impact on our mental health. It’s vital to recognize the root causes of these distressing feelings in your room. Once you know the why, then you can take the first step toward creating a healthier, more uplifting environment.

The Connection Between Your Room and Mental Health

Your environment shapes your emotions and well-being more than you might realize. Factors like clutter, lack of natural light, and poor air quality can contribute to feelings of depression or anxiety. Studies have shown a clear link between our physical spaces and mental health:

  • A 2020 study highlighted how cluttered rooms can exacerbate depression by creating a sense of overwhelm and chaos.
  • A Yale University study revealed that clutter and disorganization, especially in people who struggle with hoarding tendencies, are directly tied to feelings of stress and sadness.

If your room feels like a source of distress rather than comfort, it’s time to evaluate what might be triggering these emotions and explore actionable solutions. If you feel overwhelmed, it’s helpful to speak with an experienced mental health provider to create an action plan. 

Why You Feel Depressed in Your Room

The reasons your room may feel depressing vary from person to person. We’ve compiled a list of common culprits that are causing your depression symptoms. 

1. Cluttered or Unorganized Space

A messy room can be a constant reminder of incomplete tasks and responsibilities, especially when you’re already feeling overwhelmed. Clutter can intensify feelings of inadequacy and make relaxing at the end of the day feel impossible.

2. Lack of Natural Light

Natural light plays a crucial role in regulating your circadian rhythm, which affects your sleep and mood. Rooms without adequate sunlight can feel gloomy and disrupt your body’s natural cycles, leading to fatigue and irritability.

3. Poor Air Quality or Ventilation

Stale air or poor ventilation can make your room feel suffocating. Temperature extremes, like excessive heat or cold, also affect your comfort level and overall mood.

4. Noise Pollution

Rooms are meant to be havens of peace, but constant noise—whether from outside traffic, household activities, or thin walls—can lead to irritation and anxiety. This is especially common for those who live in a city. 

5. Lack of Personalization or Privacy

If your room doesn’t feel like it reflects your personality or if you lack privacy within it, it’s hard to feel truly at ease. A space that’s not yours can feel alienating and cause feelings of detachment. 

How to Transform Your Room into a Positive Space

Thankfully, small changes can have a big impact on how your space makes you feel. Here are practical steps to brighten your room and your mood:

1. Declutter and Organize

Start by removing items you no longer use or love. Break the process into manageable sections if it feels overwhelming. When your space is tidy, you’ll find it easier to relax and focus.

2. Let in Natural Light

Open the curtains, rearrange furniture to maximize sunlight, or add mirrors to reflect light around the room. If natural light is limited, consider investing in daylight-simulating lamps to improve your mood.

3. Enhance Air Quality

Introduce houseplants to purify the air, or use air purifiers and humidifiers for a more comfortable environment. Ensure windows are regularly opened to let in fresh air.

4. Reduce Noise

Rugs, curtains, and other soft furnishings can help dampen noise. For more severe noise issues, explore soundproofing options to make your room a quieter retreat.

If you live in a city, another helpful option is using a white noise machine to mask distressing sounds.

5. Personalize Your Space

Make your room feel uniquely yours by adding elements that bring you joy: photos, artwork, or favorite colors. Your room should feel like a safe and welcoming haven.

6. Prioritize Mental Health

If your feelings of depression or anxiety persist, despite changes to your environment, it’s important to seek professional support. Your mental health matters, and sometimes environmental changes alone aren’t enough.

Testimonials from Those Who Found Relief

Many individuals who struggled with depression or anxiety found significant relief through TMS therapy and Spravato treatment. For example:

  • “TMS therapy has been life-changing for me. I went from feeling hopeless and stuck to actually enjoying my life again.” – Advanced Psych Patient
  • “Spravato gave me my energy back. I can finally sleep well and wake up feeling ready to face the day.” – Advanced Psych Patient

Click here to explore more testimonials from those who’ve reclaimed their space and improved their mental health. 

Take the Next Step with Advanced Psych

If your bedroom’s environment is causing you depression or anxiety, Advanced Psych in Ann Arbor is here to help. We specialize in treatments like TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) and Spravato to address depression and anxiety effectively.

Take our self-assessment to better understand your symptoms and learn how we can support your journey to better mental health. A brighter, more peaceful life begins with one step—reach out today. 

If you’re located in Ann Arbor, MI, call (734) 436-4886. If you’re located in Troy, MI, call (248) 885-8887.

For those in Fort Wayne, IN, visit our partner website

Why Your Depression Won’t Go Away: And What To Do About It!

Psychiatrist taking note during consultation with patient.

When you’re battling depression, staying positive can feel impossible. But even when your treatment doesn’t seem to work, you should not give up hope on healing. Every person experiences depression symptoms differently, and certain treatments work better for different people.

Read on to learn why your depression might not be going away, with the insights of experienced psychiatrists and treatment specialists. Uncover leading options to treat your symptoms, like TMS therapy, that are proven to help treatment-resistant depression.

How Long Does Depression Normally Last? 

Depression doesn’t have a set timeline—it’s different for everyone. For some, it may last only a few weeks, especially with early intervention and the right treatment. However, others may find themselves in a battle that lasts for months or even years. This is particularly true for people with what’s called chronic depression or treatment-resistant depression, where symptoms persist despite trying various treatment options.

Typically, an episode of major depression can last anywhere from two weeks to six months without treatment. But it’s important to understand that depression isn’t always a “one-time” occurrence. Many people experience recurrent episodes throughout their lives, often triggered by stressful events, changes in health, or other underlying factors.

If your depression has been lingering for longer than a few months or if treatments you’ve tried aren’t working, this may be a sign to explore more specialized therapies, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or medication adjustments. It’s also vital to remember that seeking help sooner rather than later can significantly impact how long you experience depressive symptoms.

What Makes Depression Symptoms Not Go Away?

There are several reasons why depression symptoms may persist, even after trying different treatments. Understanding these factors can help you and your healthcare provider find a more effective approach to your care.

Incorrect Diagnosis

Depression can sometimes be misdiagnosed, especially if other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD, are present. These conditions can overlap with depression and may require different treatment strategies. If your depression hasn’t responded to traditional therapies, it’s worth discussing with your doctor whether another underlying condition could be contributing.

Ineffective Medication or Dosage

Antidepressants aren’t one-size-fits-all. It can take time to find the right medication and dosage for each individual. Some people may need a higher dose or an entirely different class of medication to see improvements. If you’ve been on a certain medication for a while and haven’t noticed changes, it’s important to revisit this with your psychiatrist.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Chronic health issues like thyroid disorders, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases can affect your mood and contribute to ongoing depression. If these underlying medical conditions aren’t properly managed, they can make it harder for depression treatments to work effectively.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Your environment and lifestyle plays a significant role in your mental health. If you’re surrounded by stress, toxic relationships, or unresolved trauma, these factors can make it difficult for treatments to fully alleviate your symptoms. In these cases, therapy can be particularly helpful in addressing the root causes of emotional pain.

In addition to therapy, lifestyle changes can make a powerful difference in improving your mental well-being. Simple adjustments, like following an exercise regimen, or maintaining a balanced diet, can significantly boost mood and reduce stress. 

Exercise releases endorphins that naturally lift mood, while a nutrient-rich diet supports brain health. Adding mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing can also help in managing stress responses. These small but impactful changes, combined with therapy, can help strengthen emotional resilience and enhance the benefits of treatment.

Treatment-Resistant Depression

For some individuals, depression becomes treatment-resistant, meaning they don’t respond to typical interventions like medication or talk therapy. This doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Innovative treatments such as TMS therapy or Spravato are specifically designed to help people with treatment-resistant depression find relief when other methods haven’t worked.

How To Know If You Have Treatment-Resistant Depression

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you feel like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work. However, it’s important to understand whether what you’re experiencing is truly TRD or if adjustments to your treatment plan might help.

You may have treatment-resistant depression if:

  1. You’ve Tried Multiple Medications
    If two or more antidepressants haven’t worked, despite being taken for the right duration and dosage, you may have TRD.
  2. Symptoms Keep Coming Back
    Your symptoms improve but quickly return, even with medication or therapy. This pattern can signal TRD.
  3. Therapy Alone Isn’t Enough
    If regular therapy hasn’t brought lasting relief, despite your efforts, TRD could be the reason.
  4. Ongoing Symptoms Despite Treatment
    Persistent symptoms like fatigue or hopelessness that don’t improve with medication or lifestyle changes may indicate TRD.
  5. Lifestyle Changes Haven’t Helped
    Even with efforts to exercise, sleep better, or reduce stress, your depression persists.

If these signs resonate with you, advanced treatments like TMS or Spravato could be the next step.

Why TMS Therapy Is a Powerful Option for Treatment-Resistant Depression

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy has emerged as a breakthrough for people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), offering hope where traditional treatments have fallen short. Unlike medications or talk therapy, TMS is a non-invasive, drug-free option that targets specific areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. This makes it an appealing choice for those who have not responded to antidepressants or who have experienced unwanted side effects from medication.

One of the key advantages of TMS therapy is its ability to directly stimulate the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for controlling mood. In people with depression, this region is often underactive, contributing to ongoing symptoms. TMS works by using magnetic pulses to activate these areas, helping to restore normal brain function and alleviate depressive symptoms. As a result, many individuals who have not found relief with standard treatments experience significant improvement with TMS.

Another reason TMS is so powerful for treatment-resistant depression is its success rate. Numerous studies have shown that people with TRD often achieve lasting relief through TMS therapy, even when other methods, like medication, have failed. Additionally, TMS comes with minimal side effects. Unlike medications that can cause weight gain, drowsiness, or sexual dysfunction, the most common side effects of TMS are mild scalp discomfort or headaches, both of which typically subside shortly after treatment.

TMS is also convenient. Each session lasts only about 20-40 minutes, and since it’s an outpatient procedure, there’s no need for downtime or recovery. You can easily fit TMS therapy into your routine and return to your normal activities right after each session. For those seeking a more targeted and non-invasive treatment for depression, TMS therapy offers a powerful alternative that’s helping many regain control of their mental health.

Contact for Treatment at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry 

At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we specialize in providing compassionate, advanced care for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression. If you’ve tried other treatments without success, TMS therapy or other innovative options might be the key to finding relief. Don’t wait to take control of your mental health—reach out today and start your journey towards a brighter, more hopeful future.

Call us at 248-885-8887 to schedule a consultation and explore the best treatment options for your needs. If you’re unsure whether our treatments are right for you, we encourage you to take our quick self-assessment to learn more about your next steps.

I Have Treatment-Resistant Depression. What Do I Do?

Woman looking out window in hopes of a depression cure. | Michigan Advanced Psych

When traditional depression treatments fail to work, it can feel like nothing ever will. If you’ve been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), know that you are not alone. There are treatments available that offer remission of symptoms.  

At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we specialize in innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato to help individuals like you find the relief you deserve. If you have treatment-resistant depression or are battling another mental health condition, there are options for finding lasting symptom relief.  

Understanding Treatment-Resistant Depression

A treatment-resistant depression diagnosis is given when a person does not respond adequately to at least two different antidepressant treatments. It can be frustrating and disheartening, but understanding this condition is the first step towards finding the right solution.

Research shows that approximately 30% of those diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) and who have tried medications, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, will develop treatment-resistant depression. The condition is not a super-rare abnormality, and no one should have to struggle in silence.

Why Traditional Depression Treatments May Fail

Traditional depression treatments fail to work for certain people due to a complex relationship between their own biology and individual response to medications. The following overview provides several reasons why standard treatments might not work for everyone.

  1. Biological Differences: Each person’s brain chemistry is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Studies show that people with TRD are more likely to have physical health conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, heart disease, and thyroid disease. 
  2. Incorrect Diagnosis: Sometimes, the initial diagnosis may miss underlying conditions such as bipolar disorder or anxiety, which can complicate treatment results.
  3. Medication Issues: Some people may metabolize medications differently or experience intolerable side effects, making it difficult to find an effective dose.

Advanced Treatment Options

If traditional antidepressants haven’t worked, there are advanced treatment options available to you. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we offer two cutting-edge therapies that are proven to provide relief to those who haven’t been successfully treated. 

For more information on the mental health conditions we are able to treat, click here

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Our patients have experienced profound relief from their TRD symptoms when traditional medications weren’t enough. Here’s some reasons why TMS therapy might be a good fit for you. 

Proven Efficacy 

TMS has been shown to be effective in individuals who have not responded to other treatments. Clinical research demonstrates that TMS can significantly reduce symptoms of depression in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. Many patients who have tried multiple medications without success have found relief with TMS.

Long-Lasting Relief

The majority of patients experience relief from depression for more than a year. Some find remission that lasts indefinitely. Regardless of duration, most patients experience some level of improvement in their mood and overall quality of life.

FDA-Approved Treatment 

TMS is a FDA-approved treatment for depression and anxious-depression, highlighting its safety and efficacy. It is not invasive, requires no medications, and has minimal side effects. 

It is important to know that TMS is not the same as ECT (electroconvulsive therapy or “shock” therapy). These are very different procedures with TMS having far fewer side effects and therefore tends to be much more favorable to patients.

Flexible Scheduling

Patients can return to their normal routines immediately after each TMS session, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or responsibilities.

TMS sessions are brief and typically last about 20 minutes. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we can schedule around your daily activities to minimize disruption to your life. You can return to your normal routines immediately after each TMS therapy session, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or responsibilities.

And since TMS does not require anesthesia or sedation, there is no recovery period needed post-treatment. Patients are able to drive themselves to and from sessions.

Spravato Treatment

Spravato is a FDA-approved nasal spray designed specifically for treatment-resistant depression. It works differently than traditional antidepressants and can provide rapid relief of symptoms. There are many benefits of Spravato, with some of the most common ones listed below. 

  1. Rapid Relief: Many patients experience improvement in their depression symptoms within hours to days after their first treatment. 
  2. Targeted Treatment: Spravato targets NMDA receptors in the brain, offering an alternative pathway to relief.
  3. Medical Supervision: The treatment is administered in a controlled clinical setting with the supervision of experienced medical staff. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we provide patients with the support and amenities they need to make them feel comfortable throughout each treatment session. 
  4. Enhances Therapy Outcomes: Spravato works very well with forms of psychotherapy, such as talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Therapy and Spravato treatment combined help patients achieve the best and lasting results. 
  5. Works with Antidepressants: Clinical trials have shown that Spravato, combined with an oral antidepressant, significantly reduces depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. This treatment is especially beneficial for those who need quick relief from severe symptoms.

What to Expect During Treatment

Understanding what to expect alleviates the anxiety associated with starting a new treatment like TMS therapy or Spravato. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect from treatment at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry or Indiana Advanced Psychiatry

The foundation of treatment is your first appointment. We’ll assess your medical history, previous treatments, and overall health to determine the best approach. Your treatments can be covered by insurance, and one of our team members will assist you with the insurance eligibility process. 

Based on our evaluation, we’ll determine which treatment option will work the best to treat your symptoms. For TMS therapy, treatment lasts between six to eight weeks, with sessions occurring five days per week. The initial treatment course with Spravato is typically over the course of eight weeks.

Our team will closely monitor your progress and adjust treatments as needed to ensure the best results. If you are interested in working with a therapist during your treatment, we can help you find a trusted one close by. 

Contact Michigan Advanced Psychiatry Today

At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care for those battling treatment-resistant depression. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more hopeful future. Call 248-885-8887 to schedule an appointment

If you are looking for more information to determine if our treatments are right for you, we invite you to take our self-assessment. 

Call Now
Michigan Advanced Psychiatry
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.