Hope Integrative Medicine · Care, step by step
Depression Treatment, Step by Step
Most people with depression benefit from treatment: therapy, medication or both, by video anywhere in South Carolina.
What treatment looks like
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Request an appointment
New patients are often able to be scheduled within a week of requesting an appointment. Send the form or call; our front desk can check your insurance before your first visit.
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Your first visit
A conversation about how you have been feeling, for how long, your health, medicines and goals. Mental health care is available by video anywhere in South Carolina.
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A plan you choose together
Treatment typically involves therapy, medication or both. Your provider explains the options and you decide together.
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Follow-up visits
Antidepressants usually take 4 to 8 weeks to work, so early visits check how you are doing and adjust the plan.
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Ongoing care
Once you feel better, regular visits help you stay well. Talk to your provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Ready for the first step?
New patients are often able to be scheduled within a week of requesting an appointment.
Signs of depression
- Persistent sad moodA sad, anxious or empty feeling that does not lift
- HopelessnessFeeling hopeless or pessimistic about the future
- Loss of interestLittle pleasure in hobbies and activities you used to enjoy
- Sleep changesTrouble sleeping, waking early or sleeping too much
- Appetite changesEating much more or much less, with weight changes
- Low energyTiredness and feeling slowed down
- Thoughts of deathThoughts of death or suicide: call or text 988 right away
Safety: If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988, or call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
Sources: NIMH: Depression.
Common Questions
Yes. Most people with depression benefit from mental health treatment, which typically involves therapy, medication or both.
Usually 4 to 8 weeks. Follow-up visits in that time make sure the medicine is helping and the dose is right.
Mental health care is available by video anywhere in South Carolina. You connect from your home or any private location.
If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988, or call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
Read the full guide to depression treatment
This article is general information, not medical advice, and does not create a patient–provider relationship. Every situation is different, so see a provider who can evaluate yours and develop a plan of care. If you are ever in doubt about an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.