Depression and mood changes
Depression can affect mood, sleep, energy, concentration, motivation, and interest in daily life.
Most appointments are provided by secure video for patients located in California.
Reasons people seek help
- Low mood, numbness, or irritability that persists
- Loss of interest or motivation
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Difficulty concentrating or meeting responsibilities
- Strong self-criticism or hopelessness
- Seasonal, cyclical, or recurring mood changes
What a depression evaluation may involve
Dr. Yang reviews when symptoms began, changes in mood and sleep, appetite, concentration, daily functioning, medical history, past treatment, current medications, recent stress, and what you most want to improve.
The evaluation also considers whether symptoms are persistent or episodic and whether past periods of increased energy or reduced need for sleep suggest a different mood pattern. A clear diagnosis sometimes takes more than one visit.
How depression care may be approached
Care may include medication management and psychotherapy integrated into psychiatric care. Dr. Yang explains possible benefits, limitations, alternatives, and practical considerations before you decide together.
Treatment planning considers energy, sleep, concentration, relationships, responsibilities, prior treatment response, and what you most want to regain. The plan is adjusted as symptoms, functioning, and treatment response change.
When another setting may be needed
Rapidly worsening depression, inability to meet basic needs, or immediate safety concerns require a setting that can provide urgent or more intensive support. If frequent in-person monitoring is needed, another treatment setting may also be more appropriate.
Common questions about depression treatment
Can depression mainly feel like irritability or constant exhaustion?
Yes. Depression may include irritability, slowed thinking, low motivation, changes in sleep, or loss of interest; sadness is not always the most noticeable feeling.
Can a diagnosis be confirmed at the first appointment?
Not always. The initial appointment allows a detailed review, but depressive symptoms can overlap with medical conditions, anxiety, trauma, or bipolar-spectrum patterns. Diagnosis and planning may become clearer over several visits.
Helpful before scheduling
You don’t have to figure out the next step alone.
If low mood or lost interest is weighing you down, an evaluation can help.