Patient Education
Depression
Thoughtful, personalized depression care that meets you with patience, privacy, and a clear path forward.
Depression is a common, treatable medical condition that affects mood, energy, sleep, and the ability to enjoy daily life. As your Los Angeles primary care physician, Dr. Golian offers private, unhurried support that may include PHQ-9 depression screening, SSRI/SNRI therapy, and coordinated referrals when you need them.
Symptoms & Warning Signs
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or a low mood most of the day
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or weight
- Fatigue, low energy, or difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness
- Thoughts of self-harm or that life isn't worth living (seek help right away)
Causes & Risk Factors
- A personal or family history of depression or other mood disorders
- Chronic stress, grief, or major life transitions
- Co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, or chronic illness
- Hormonal or metabolic factors, including thyroid imbalance
- Alcohol or substance use
- Certain medications or significant sleep disruption
How Dr. Golian Manages Depression
Care begins with an unhurried conversation and a validated PHQ-9 screening to understand how you're feeling and how depression is affecting your daily life. Because mood symptoms can overlap with other conditions, Dr. Golian may check for contributors such as hypothyroidism or untreated sleep disorders, and screen for co-occurring anxiety.
When medication is appropriate, she may start and carefully monitor SSRI or SNRI therapy, adjusting over time to balance benefit and side effects. She also coordinates cognitive behavioral therapy referrals and, when appropriate, subspecialty psychiatric care..
Living Well With Depression
Recovery is rarely a straight line, and small, steady steps matter. Regular movement, consistent sleep, limiting alcohol, and staying connected to people you trust can all support your treatment.
Dr. Golian partners with you over time through follow-up visits and a personalized lifestyle plan, so your care adapts as you do.
Frequently Asked Questions
1How do I know if I'm depressed or just going through a rough patch?
2Will I have to take medication?
3How long do antidepressants take to work?
4Can my primary care doctor treat depression, or do I need a psychiatrist?
5What should I do if I'm having thoughts of harming myself?
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Take the First Step Toward Feeling Like Yourself Again
If depression has been weighing on you, Dr. Golian offers compassionate, personalized care in a private setting where you'll feel heard.
Schedule a Consultation