Depression Treatment in Louisville, KY

Depression is more than feeling sad—it's a serious medical condition that affects how you think, feel, and handle daily activities. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. At Smither Psychiatry, we provide compassionate, effective treatment to help you find relief.

Understanding Depression

Depression affects approximately 21 million American adults each year. It's not a sign of weakness or something you can simply "snap out of." Depression is a medical condition caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

The good news: depression is highly treatable. According to the American Psychiatric Association, between 80% and 90% of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment.

Types of Depression We Treat

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities that interferes with daily functioning for at least two weeks. This is the most common form of depression.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

A chronic form of depression lasting two years or more. Symptoms may be less severe than major depression but are more persistent, making it difficult to remember what it feels like to not be depressed.

Bipolar Depression

Depressive episodes that occur as part of bipolar disorder, alternating with periods of mania or hypomania. We provide comprehensive treatment for Bipolar Disorder as well.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically occurring during fall and winter months when there's less natural sunlight.

Postpartum Depression

Depression that occurs after childbirth, affecting the ability to care for yourself and your baby. This is more severe than the "baby blues" and requires professional treatment.

Common Depression Symptoms

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Irritability or frustration over small matters

Physical Symptoms

• Decreased energy or fatigue
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Appetite and weight changes
• Physical aches or pains without clear cause
• Slowed movements or speech

Cognitive Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Negative self-perception

Our Approach to Depression Treatment

Morgan Smither, PMHNP, works with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan:

Medication Management

Several classes of antidepressant medications have proven effective:

• SSRIs - Often the first-line treatment due to their effectiveness and tolerability
• SNRIs - May be helpful when SSRIs aren't effective
• Atypical Antidepressants - Can be particularly helpful for fatigue and concentration issues
• Tricyclic Antidepressants - May be considered when other treatments haven't worked
• Mood Stabilizers - For bipolar depression or treatment-resistant cases

Brief Supportive Psychotherapy

Combined with medication management, we help you:

• Identify and challenge negative thought patterns
• Develop healthy coping mechanisms
• Set achievable goals and rebuild daily routines
• Strengthen support networks
• Address contributing life circumstances

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Your initial evaluation will include:

• A comprehensive psychiatric assessment
• Discussion of your symptoms, their duration, and impact
• Review of medical history and any previous treatments
• Screening for co-occurring conditions (anxiety, bipolar disorder)
• Development of a personalized treatment plan

Related Conditions

Depression often co-occurs with other conditions we treat: