How do I check to see if I have depression?

Introduction: Why Depression Needs a New Approach

Depression affects more than 21 million Americans, yet many still suffer in silence or struggle with incomplete answers. At Patients Medical in New York City, we go beyond traditional antidepressants. Our integrative, functional medicine approach seeks to uncover why you’re feeling low and helps restore balance—emotionally, chemically, and biologically.

We treat the whole person—not just the diagnosis.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities. It affects how you think, feel, and function.

There are many types:

  • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Characterized by a deep, ongoing sadness and low energy that lasts at least two weeks.
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic, low-grade depression that lasts for two years or more.
  • Postpartum Depression: Affects women after childbirth due to hormonal shifts and emotional stress.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression triggered by seasonal changes, typically in winter.
  • Bipolar Depression: Alternating episodes of depression and mania.

 

Common Symptoms of Depression

Everyone experiences depression differently. Some common signs include:

Root Causes: Why Do I Feel This Way?

Functional medicine doesn’t stop at “You have depression”—we ask why. Often, the root causes are not emotional alone, but biochemical and physiological too:

  • Chronic inflammation and cytokine activity in the brain
  • Gut-brain axis dysfunction or leaky gut
  • Hormonal imbalances (cortisol, thyroid, estrogen, testosterone)
  • Nutrient deficiencies (B12, folate, magnesium, omega-3s)
  • Poor sleep quality or circadian rhythm disruption
  • Heavy metal toxicity or mold exposure
  • Blood sugar instability or insulin resistance
  • Past trauma or unresolved emotional pain

By addressing these root causes, we can support lasting emotional wellness without relying solely on medication.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we use advanced lab testing to identify the biological and emotional root causes of depression:

Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies (B6, B12, folate, magnesium, zinc)

Thyroid panels (TSH, Free T3/T4, reverse T3, thyroid antibodies)

Adrenal stress panels (cortisol and DHEA)

Inflammatory markers (CRP, cytokines, homocysteine)

Gut health and microbiome testing

Hormone analysis (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone)

Heavy metal and toxin panels

Neurotransmitter and methylation status (e.g., MTHFR)

Integrative Treatments for Depression

Nutritional Therapy

We create food-as-medicine plans to reduce inflammation and nourish brain chemistry:

  • Anti-inflammatory diets (Mediterranean, whole-foods based)
  • Elimination diets to identify food sensitivities
  • Omega-3 and tryptophan-rich foods to support serotonin production
  • Balanced blood sugar strategies

IV Nutrient Therapy

For rapid mood and energy support, we offer targeted IV infusions that include:

  • B vitamins for energy and neurotransmitter production
  • Magnesium for calming and sleep
  • Glutathione for detox and inflammation
  • Amino acids like tryptophan and tyrosine for mood balance

Herbal & Nutraceutical Support

Personalized, physician-monitored protocols may include:

  • St. John’s Wort, SAM-e, and Rhodiola for mood
  • Magnesium glycinate and GABA for anxiety
  • Omega-3 fish oil for brain health
  • Adaptogens like ashwagandha or holy basil for stress

Mind-Body Therapies

We support the emotional and nervous system healing with:

  • Guided meditation and breathwork
  • Acupuncture for mood, sleep, and hormone regulation
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) referrals
  • Trauma-informed counseling

Hormonal and Neurotransmitter Balancing

We identify and support imbalances in:

  • Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
  • Thyroid function
  • Cortisol/adrenal rhythm

Serotonin, dopamine, and GABA

Real Case Study: David’s Journey to Mental Clarity

David, 41, came in feeling exhausted, unfocused, and emotionally disconnected. He had tried two antidepressants with minimal improvement.

Our testing revealed:

  • Low vitamin D and magnesium
  • Adrenal fatigue with low morning cortisol
  • Elevated homocysteine levels
  • Signs of gut inflammation

His personalized plan included:

  • Daily nutrient-dense meals and magnesium glycinate
  • IV therapy for B-complex, vitamin D, and amino acids
  • Mindfulness meditation and acupuncture
  • Gentle adrenal support herbs

After 8 weeks, David felt clearer, more energized, and had cut his medication in half under supervision.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 A professional assessment, along with understanding your symptoms and medical history, can help differentiate between clinical depression and situational stress.

 While there is no single test, lab evaluations can uncover biological imbalances contributing to your mood.

 Not necessarily. We focus on natural, root-cause therapies. Some patients use integrative approaches alongside or in place of medication under careful guidance.

 Yes. The gut-brain axis is essential to neurotransmitter production and emotional regulation.

 Absolutely. The right nutrients and anti-inflammatory foods can significantly improve mood, energy, and sleep.

 Most patients begin noticing improvements within 4–8 weeks of starting integrative care.

 We are an out-of-network provider, but we offer superbills for possible reimbursement. Many labs may be partially covered.

 We collaborate with your psychiatrist or prescribing doctor to integrate natural support safely.

 We work with a network of trusted mental health providers and offer internal mind-body support.

 Yes. Cortisol, estrogen, thyroid hormones, and others play a key role in mood regulation.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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