Depressive Disorders

Feeling low from time to time is a natural part of life, but when feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of motivation persist and begin to interfere with daily life, it may indicate a depressive disorder. Depression affects how you see yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. It’s a common mental health condition that can feel isolating, but you’re not alone—and help is available.

Signs and Common Thoughts in Depression

Common Symptoms of Depression Include:

Persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness.
Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities once found pleasurable.
Changes in sleep patterns—either too much or too little.
Changes in appetite or weight.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness.
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (if you are experiencing this, please seek immediate help).

Common Thoughts in Depression:

"I am worthless and can’t do anything about it."
"I feel guilty for just wanting to eat, sleep, and be alone."
"I hate who I am these days."
"I can’t stop crying, which makes me want to stay away from others."
"My life and the world around me feel dark and heavy."

If any of this resonates with you or your loved one, it’s important to know that these thoughts and feelings are part of depression—and with the right help, they can improve.

A few facts about Depressive Disorders

0 %

of people experience a major depression at some point in their life.

0 %

of people who experience one depressive episode will have
a second one

people in the U.S. die by
suicide yearly

Our Multidisciplinary Approach to Depression Care

At Mind Study Center in Pasadena, we take a compassionate, evidence-based approach to diagnosing and treating depressive disorders. Every individual’s experience with depression is unique, and our team works collaboratively to create personalized treatment plans that address biological, emotional, and environmental factors.

Our Team Approach Includes:

Comprehensive Psychological Assessments:
- Our psychologists conduct thorough evaluations to better understand the nature and severity of depressive symptoms and identify any co-occurring conditions.
Evidence-Based Therapy:
- We specialize in therapies proven to help with depression, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), psychodynamic psychotherapy and other approaches tailored to individual needs.
Medical Expertise:
- Our psychiatrists evaluate for biological factors and can prescribe medication when appropriate. For more complex or severe cases, we often recommend a combination of therapy and medication, which has been shown to be highly effective.
Collaborative Care Plans:
- Our multidisciplinary team ensures seamless collaboration between therapists, psychiatrists, and families to provide a holistic and well-rounded approach to treatment.
Focus on Strengths and Empowerment:
- We believe in empowering individuals to regain control over their lives, helping them rediscover their strengths and build resilience.

Why Choose Mind Study Center?

Based in Pasadena, we’re dedicated to providing compassionate, effective care for individuals and families experiencing depression.

Expert psychologists and psychiatrists working together for comprehensive care.
A focus on evidence-based treatment tailored to your unique needs.
A welcoming, supportive environment where you can feel heard and valued.

To schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation and take the first step

toward personalized care and support.