Signs and Symptoms of Depression Q&A

At Dr. Flanigan Landeros OCD & Psychological Services, we understand that depression is a complex mental health condition that can profoundly impact how you feel, think, and function each day. If you’re experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness that last most of the day—nearly every day—you are not alone, and help is available.

The most common symptoms of depression include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Significant changes in sleep patterns (sleeping too much or difficulty sleeping)
• Changes in appetite or weight (either increase or decrease)
• Fatigue or low energy
• Physical symptoms such as unexplained aches, pains, or restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or thinking clearly
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (requires immediate attention)

At Dr. Flanigan Landeros OCD & Psychological Services, we offer care tailored to your unique needs. If these symptoms have persisted for two weeks or longer and are interfering with your daily functioning, our compassionate, confidential services can help you manage depression and reclaim your well-being.

We understand how overwhelming and isolating depression can feel. If you notice persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness lasting most of the day for more than two weeks, it may be time to seek professional support. Depression often interferes with daily life, making it difficult to work, study, maintain relationships, or care for yourself. These are clear signs that specialized help can make a difference.

You should also consider reaching out if you experience significant changes in sleep or appetite, trouble concentrating, or lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. Physical symptoms—such as unexplained aches and pains, ongoing fatigue, or restlessness—can also be related to depression and deserve attention.

If you’re having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or feel like you can’t go on, please seek immediate help. The same applies if people close to you have expressed concern about your well-being. Remember, depression is a treatable condition, and you don’t have to face it alone. At Dr. Flanigan Landeros OCD & Psychological Services, our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. Reaching out to a mental health professional is a positive and important first step toward feeling better.

At Dr. Flanigan Landeros OCD & Psychological Services, we understand that depression is a complex mental health disorder that can present in many different forms, each with unique challenges. Our practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for individuals struggling with depression and related mood disorders. The most common types of depression are:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): This is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Clinicians help patients identify and manage these symptoms with a personalized treatment plan.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): For those experiencing a chronic, less intense but long-lasting depressed mood, healthcare teams offer ongoing support and therapeutic strategies to improve daily functioning and quality of life.

Bipolar Disorder: Many providers are experienced in diagnosing and treating depressive episodes within the context of bipolar disorder, which also includes periods of mania or hypomania. An integrated approach helps stabilize mood fluctuations.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): When mood changes with the seasons, especially during the winter months, practices provide targeted interventions, which may include psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Postpartum Depression: Clinicians are sensitive to the unique needs of new mothers and provide supportive, nonjudgmental care for postpartum depression that goes beyond the typical “baby blues.”

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Specialized assessment and treatment are offered for women experiencing intense mood symptoms related to their menstrual cycle, ensuring that care is tailored to their specific needs.

Psychotic Depression: For individuals experiencing severe depression accompanied by hallucinations or delusions, a thorough evaluation and coordinated care plan is provided, often in collaboration with other healthcare providers.

Situational Depression (Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood): Life changes, trauma, or stress can trigger depressive symptoms. Compassionate support is offered to help individuals process these events and develop effective coping strategies.

At Dr. Flanigan Landeros Psychological Services, we understand that depression affects everyone differently. Our team uses evidence-based therapies and, when needed, medication management to create a personalized treatment plan. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, reaching out for professional support is the first step toward recovery. Dr. Katie Flanigan Landeros is here to provide compassionate care and help you regain your well-being.

Depression is a complex mental health condition, and its duration can vary from person to person. For some individuals, a single episode may last only a few weeks or months, while others may struggle with symptoms for longer periods or experience recurring episodes throughout their lives. A major depressive episode is typically diagnosed when symptoms persist for at least two weeks, but without treatment, these symptoms may last longer or worsen.

Chronic depression, such as persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), involves symptoms that can last for two years or more. Other forms of depression may be triggered by specific life events or stressors and may resolve as circumstances improve or with appropriate support.

Recovery from depression is unique to each individual. With early intervention and treatment, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, many people begin to feel better within weeks to months. However, the process of recovery is gradual, and it’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with depression is different.

At Dr. Flanigan Landeros OCD & Psychological Services, our compassionate team is dedicated to providing timely, individualized care that can make a significant difference in your journey toward recovery. You do not have to face depression alone. Contact us or schedule an appointment with us today to begin your path toward healing. We are conveniently located at 400 Continental Blvd FL 6, Suite A El Segundo, CA 90245. We serve patients from El Segundo CA, Santa Monica CA, Inglewood CA, Gardena CA, Torrance CA, Hawthorne CA, Culver City CA, Westmont CA, West Los Angeles CA and surrounding areas.