Services

Depression & mood disorders

Medically reviewed by Yenny Porrata DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC - Adult Psychiatry

Individualized care for depressive symptoms, low motivation, mood changes, and loss of interest.

Call 786-542-5766

What to expect

Careful evaluation

We review your symptoms, history, and past treatment before suggesting a plan.

A clear plan

Options, benefits, and possible side effects are explained in plain language.

Ongoing follow-up

The plan is reviewed at each visit and adjusted to your response, routine, and goals.

Understanding this condition

Depression is more than a low mood. It is a treatable medical condition that can change sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, and the ability to feel interest or pleasure in daily life. Mood symptoms may build slowly over months or appear after a specific event, and many adults live with them for years before seeking care.

A psychiatric evaluation looks at how long symptoms have lasted, how severe they are, what may be contributing — including thyroid problems, anemia, chronic pain, medication side effects, or substance use — and what has helped or not helped in the past.

How this condition is evaluated and treated

Diagnostic clarification

Depressive symptoms overlap with bipolar disorder, grief, anxiety, thyroid disease, and sleep disorders. Treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis rather than a fast prescription.

Medication management

When medication is appropriate, options, expected timelines, benefits, and possible side effects are discussed openly, and doses are adjusted based on your response.

Coordinated follow-up

Progress is reviewed at each visit, and care can be coordinated with therapy, primary care, or other specialists when that supports recovery.

Common signs and symptoms

Persistent sadness, emptiness, or irritability most days
Loss of interest in activities that used to matter
Sleeping much more or much less than usual
Fatigue, slowed movement, or feeling physically heavy
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Appetite or weight changes, guilt, or feelings of worthlessness

When to schedule an evaluation

Consider scheduling an evaluation if low mood has lasted more than two weeks, is affecting work, school, or relationships, or if you are having thoughts of self-harm. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Call 786-542-5766

Frequently asked questions

How long does antidepressant medication take to work?

Most antidepressants require two to six weeks at an effective dose before full benefit is clear, though sleep and appetite often improve earlier. Follow-up visits are used to track response and adjust.

Do I have to take medication?

No. Medication is one option. Some adults improve with therapy, sleep and lifestyle changes, or treatment of an underlying medical issue. Your treatment plan is decided with you.