What is Depression?

Depression is a serious illness of sadness and feeling low that doesn’t subside. Depression is also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression.

Symptoms of Depression

You can help your loved one recognize the signs of depression. Some common signs of depression include:

  • Changes in appetite
  • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Feelings of irritability, frustration or restlessness
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies or activities
  • Persistent sad or anxious mood
  • Too much sleep or trouble sleeping
  • Trouble focusing or having racing thoughts

When to Seek Care for Depression

If you think you have depression or know someone who does, talk to your healthcare provider. Primary care providers will talk with you about your symptoms during the visit. They will review your medical history to check if the symptoms could be a result of certain medications or some medical conditions.

Your primary care doctor can also help refer you or your loved one to our licensed mental health specialists. Your mental health well-being is just as important as your physical health. Contact your primary doctor today.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself, either go to Cape Fear Valley Health Emergency Department or call 911. 

Why Choose Cape Fear Valley Health for Anxiety Treatment?

  • We are known as the largest healthcare system offering behavioral health services in Cumberland County and the six-county area. We have 35,000 office visits annually.

  • If you are diagnosed with anxiety, you’ll have a team trained in using a person-centered approach. They emphasize choice, collaboration and empowerment. Your behavioral health services team may include: • Master’s-level Licensed Adult and Child Psychotherapists • Registered Nurses • Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialists • Licensed Clinical Psychologist • Board-certified Adult Psychiatrists • Board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists • Board-certified Psychologists • Licensed Physician Assistants • Licensed Nurse Practitioners

  • If you are diagnosed with a mental disorder, you’ll have access to the full range of Cape Fear Valley Health services. Patients choose us because our friendly doctors and staff love the community we serve.

  • The Community Mental Health Center at Cape Fear Valley accepts Tricare, Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurances. We also offer a sliding fee scale adjusted for a patient’s ability to pay. Services are available to all Cumberland County residents regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

Next Steps