Depression is more than feeling sad. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects every part of life. Treatment helps people manage their symptoms and feel better.
At Summit at Harmony Oaks, in Chattanooga, TN, we offer several treatment options to help people with depression lead more fulfilling lives.
About Depressive Disorders
Depressive disorders are mental health disorders that affect a person’s mood, energy, and outlook on life. These disorders include major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), and bipolar disorder.
People with depression may feel hopeless, lose interest in things they enjoy, and find it hard to do daily tasks. Depression isn’t just having a “bad day” or feeling down. Depression is a long-lasting condition that requires professional help.
There are many forms of depression treatment available at Summit at Harmony Oaks that can help you find your happy place.


What Are the Causes of Depression?
There’s no single cause of depression. Depression can happen for several reasons, and usually, it’s a mix of many factors. Some people have a family history of depression, which can make them more likely to experience it.
Stressful life events like losing a job, the death of a loved one, or major changes can trigger depression. Certain medical conditions, like thyroid problems or chronic illnesses, can increase the risk of depression.
Depression can sometimes be linked to low levels of brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine. Understanding these causes and risk factors can help create a personalized treatment plan that works best for each person.
Who Is at Risk of Developing Depression?
Anyone can experience depression, but some people are more likely to.
Knowing the depression risk factors can help you get help early:
- Age: Adolescents often feel stressed due to the pressures of growing up.
- Family history: Having a family member with a mental illness can increase your risk.
- Trauma: Experiencing traumatic events can trigger depression.
- Personality traits: Certain personality traits, like being introverted, socially awkward, or pessimistic, may lead to depression.
- Substance use: Struggling with substance abuse can contribute to depression.
- Low self-esteem: Thinking badly of yourself can increase your risk for depression and suicidal thoughts.
- Health problems: Being sick can make you feel down.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:
- Constant feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Changes in appetite, often leading to weight gain or loss
- Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
These symptoms may interfere with a person’s daily life. Severe depression can make it difficult to perform routine tasks like going to work, attending school, or even getting out of bed. Recognizing these symptoms is an important step in seeking help.
Types of Depression Disorders Treated at Harmony Oaks
Summit at Harmony Oaks provides treatment for different types of depression, each needing a personalized approach. Here are some of the most common types we treat:
- Major depression: Also known as major depressive disorder, this type causes constant sadness, fatigue, and a loss of interest in daily activities, making it difficult to function.
- Bipolar Disorder: People with bipolar disorder experience intense mood swings, moving from depressive lows to manic highs, which can greatly affect daily life and relationships. Antipsychotics may be used, especially in severe cases where psychosis may occur during manic or depressive episodes.
- Other types: Summit at Harmony Oaks also treats other forms of depression, such as persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), a long-lasting, milder depression; seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which occurs during certain seasons like winter; and postpartum depression, which can affect new mothers due to hormonal changes and stress after childbirth.
Healthcare providers play a vital role in diagnosing depressive disorders. This can include primary care doctors who may provide the first point of contact.
A psychiatrist may be beneficial in medication management for mood disorders. Psychiatry focuses on diagnosing and treating mental disorders like depression and bipolar disorder.
Each type of depression may require a different intervention, so we focus on creating individualized plans to meet each person’s unique needs.
Most Insurance Accepted
As a member of the Harmony Health Group family of treatment programs, we are able to work with many private insurance plans.
Verify InsuranceSide Effects & Complications of Depression
Without treatment, depression can lead to more health problems. People with depression may develop physical health issues like high blood pressure or a weakened immune system.
They may also experience side effects from antidepressant medication or other treatments, like nausea, weight gain, and drowsiness.
In addition to physical symptoms, depression can worsen mental health conditions like anxiety disorders and increase the risk of substance use disorder. Severe depression can even lead to suicidal thoughts, which makes it critical to seek help as soon as possible.
Depression Disorder Treatment in Chattanooga, TN

In Chattanooga, TN, Summit at Harmony Oaks provides a wide range of depression treatment options. Each treatment plan is created specifically for each person and their needs and symptoms.
Our goal is to help people manage their depression, find hope, and regain control of their lives.
For people with severe depression or those at risk of self-harm, inpatient treatment may be the best option. At Summit at Harmony Oaks, our inpatient treatment offers 24-hour care in a safe, supportive environment.
Patients receive support from mental health professionals and can focus on recovery without the distractions of daily life. This program is ideal for people who need intensive care and support.
Outpatient programs allow people to receive treatment while still living at home. Patients attend individual and group therapy sessions a few times a week.
Outpatient care is good for people with moderate depression who need regular support but can still handle daily life. Family members can also be involved, creating a strong support system at home.
Depression and substance use disorder often occur together, making treatment more complex. Summit at Harmony Oaks offers dual diagnosis programs to treat both conditions simultaneously.
This approach addresses the root causes of both issues, giving patients a better chance at long-term recovery. Psychotherapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are commonly used in these programs to help change negative thought patterns.
Therapies for Depression Treatment at Summit at Harmony Oaks
Harmony Oaks uses a mix of therapies to help people with depression. Each therapy provides tools to manage symptoms and support well-being.
CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people change negative thoughts and actions that lead to depression. CBT at Summit at Harmony Oaks is highly effective for people with depression.
It teaches new ways to handle stress and change negative thinking patterns. It helps people develop problem-solving skills to cope with challenges that contribute to depression.
These therapies allow people to connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences in a supportive environment helps reduce isolation and fosters understanding. Support groups can be helpful to know others are surviving and managing their depression.
Family therapy involves loved ones in the treatment process, which can strengthen relationships and improve communication. Individual therapy offers a one-on-one space to explore feelings and develop coping skills.
For people whose depression is linked to trauma, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can help. This therapy works to process traumatic memories, reducing their impact on mental health.
Alternative therapies like adventure therapy, yoga, and music therapy support emotional well-being and relaxation.
Yoga combines physical movement with mindfulness to ease stress, while music therapy allows for emotional expression. Adventure therapy involves outdoor activities, helping individuals build confidence and resilience.
Claim Depression Recovery at Summit at Harmony Oaks
Contact UsDepression recovery is possible with the right help and support. At Summit at Harmony Oaks, we are committed to helping you find hope, peace, and strength.
Our caring team provides a safe space to begin healing and regain control of your life. With our comprehensive treatment programs, you can work toward a happier, healthier future.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, remember that help is available. Contact our team at Summit at Harmony Oaks to explore our treatment options and how we can help you on your journey to a healthy life.
Depression Treatment Program FAQs
The most effective treatment usually combines talk therapy and medication. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medications like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) are often effective.
Certain supplements, such as St. John’s Wort may be helpful, but it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional first. They can advise on possible side effects and interactions with existing medications.
Treatment-resistant depression — cases where typical treatments don’t work — may benefit from other therapies like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), or interpersonal therapy.
Inpatient treatment is best for those with severe symptoms or who struggle with daily life due to depression. If depression interferes with work, school, or personal safety, inpatient treatment can offer intensive care and a safe environment to focus on healing.
Depression may not disappear completely, but with the right help, people can manage it. Many people find that a combination of therapy, medication, and healthy habits can help them live full lives, even with depression.
Sources
- American Psychiatric Association. “What Is Depression?”. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression. Accessed on October 30, 2024.
- Medical News Today. “Everything you need to know about interpersonal therapy”. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/interpersonal-therapy. Accessed on October 30, 2024.
- Mayo Clinic. “Treatment-resistant depression”. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/treatment-resistant-depression/art-20044324. Accessed on October 30, 2024.