Northeast Health Services is dedicated to supporting your mental health. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to reach out for immediate support through your local crisis services by dialing 988, contacting your local emergency services, or visiting your local emergency room.
Seeking support for mental health concerns can be one of the bravest steps you take. If you or someone you care about is living with persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, or overwhelming fatigue, these could be signs of major depressive disorder (MDD). At Northeast Health Services, we offer a range of mental health services—from therapy and psychiatric medication management to innovative options like Spravato® treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy—to meet your needs in a way that feels right for you. Call 508.794.8711 today to learn more about treatment options that support you.
What is major depressive disorder?
Major depressive disorder is a serious mental health condition that affects how you think, feel, and function. It goes beyond occasional sadness or a rough day—it’s a long-lasting condition that can impact every area of life, from relationships to work to physical health.
In 2021, more than 21 million adults in the United States—representing more than 8% of the adult population—experienced at least one major depressive episode, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).1 Depression can affect anyone, regardless of background, age, or gender.
Recognizing the symptoms of MDD
Symptoms of major depressive disorder can vary, but they typically include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Fatigue or low energy, even after rest
- Changes in sleep patterns: insomnia or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you’ve been experiencing any combination of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it might be time to talk with a mental health professional.
The cause of major depressive disorder
There’s no single cause of MDD. Instead, it usually results from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Some common contributors include:
- Genetics: Having a family history of depression increases your risk.
- Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can play a role.
- Hormonal changes: Life transitions such as pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid issues can trigger depression.
- Trauma or stress: Childhood adversity, loss of a loved one, or chronic stress may increase vulnerability.
- Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, or chronic pain are often linked to depression.
How is MDD diagnosed?
Diagnosing clinical depression involves a careful assessment by a qualified mental health provider. They’ll talk with you about your symptoms, how long you’ve been experiencing them, and how they affect your daily life.
Northeast Health Services takes a compassionate and individualized approach to care. Our providers are here to listen without judgment and help you find a path forward that reflects your needs and goals.
What are the treatment options for MDD?
The good news is that major depressive disorder is treatable, and treatment works. Northeast Health Services offers multiple evidence-based options for MDD, whether you’re exploring support for the first time or looking for something new after other treatments haven’t worked.
Here are some of the approaches that may be part of your care plan:
- Therapy: Talking with a licensed therapist can be a powerful part of healing. Therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and interpersonal therapy (IPT) can help reduce depressive symptoms. Our therapists tailor each approach to your unique needs—CBT and DBT are just a few available modalities.
- Psychiatric medication management: Antidepressants may help balance the brain chemicals involved in mood regulation. Our psychiatric providers work closely with you to find the proper medication and dosage, constantly monitoring for effectiveness and side effects.
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy: For those who haven’t had success with medication, TMS may offer new hope. This noninvasive treatment uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood. It’s approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and backed by research for its effectiveness in treating depression.
- Spravato® treatment: This FDA-approved nasal spray is used for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and is administered under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Spravato® works differently from traditional antidepressants and can offer relief for those who haven’t responded to other treatments.
Our care team may also suggest supportive strategies such as lifestyle changes, stress management, or mindfulness practices.
When should you consider TMS or Spravato®?
Not everyone responds to the first treatment they try—and that’s OK. TMS therapy and Spravato® treatment are two options specifically for clients with treatment-resistant depression.
You may benefit from these services if:
- You’ve tried two or more antidepressants without significant improvement
- You experience unpleasant side effects with medications
- Your depressive symptoms make it difficult to function day-to-day
These services are available at select Northeast Health Services locations throughout Massachusetts.
Living with MDD: What does healing look like?
Healing from major depressive disorder doesn’t always mean the symptoms disappear completely. Instead, treatment helps you manage symptoms, regain energy and motivation, and reconnect with what matters most to you. Many people living with MDD go on to lead fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.
Recovery might look like:
- Reconnecting with friends and family
- Returning to work or school
- Enjoying activities you used to love
- Feeling more hopeful and grounded
- Building a toolkit for managing future stress
There’s no one “right” way to heal. Northeast Health Services believes in treatment on your terms, rooted in compassionate care for your mental well-being.
How can family and friends support a loved one with MDD?
Supporting someone with MDD can feel challenging, especially when you’re unsure what to say or do. Your presence matters more than you might realize.
Here are some ways to offer support:
- Listen without trying to fix: Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply be there.
- Encourage treatment: Offer to help them find a therapist or go with them to an appointment.
- Educate yourself: Learning about MDD helps reduce stigma and improves communication.
- Be patient: Recovery can take time, and progress may not always be linear.
- Take care of yourself: Supporting someone else is easier when your own needs are met.
We know it isn’t easy, but we’re here to walk this journey with you.
Connect with Northeast Health Services and get the support you need and deserve
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking a fresh start, Northeast Health Services offers treatment that supports you. Our experienced providers offer therapy, medication management, and interventional treatments like Spravato® and TMS therapy in a warm, welcoming environment. Call Northeast Health Services at 508.794.8711 today. Let us help you take the next step in your mental health journey.
For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.
Footnote: