Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects thousands of individuals across Washington, D.C. and Prince George’s County, Maryland. Feelings of sadness, fatigue, hopelessness, and emotional numbness can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. While therapy is a proven and powerful treatment option, many people also benefit from the addition of depression medication to help regulate brain chemistry and manage symptoms more effectively.
How Depression Medications Work
Antidepressants work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain—chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—that affect mood and emotional regulation. Common types include:
- SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
- Help boost serotonin, a mood-regulating chemical. Common and well-tolerated.
- Examples: Prozac, Zoloft.
- SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
- Increase both serotonin and norepinephrine to improve mood and sometimes help with pain.
- Examples: Cymbalta, Effexor.
- Atypical antidepressants
- They affect brain chemicals in unique ways to help balance mood. For example, Wellbutrin (a well-known atypical antidepressant) helps improve mood by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.
- Tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs (used less frequently but still effective for some)
- Older classes of antidepressants. They work by increasing the levels of key brain chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine
- Examples: Elavil, MAOIs, Nardil
Finding the right depression medication can take time, and it often requires close monitoring and adjustment by a qualified mental health provider. Side effects and effectiveness can vary by individual, which is why professional support is essential throughout the process.
Personalized Depression Care in Washington, D.C. and PG County
Your mental health matters. Whether you’re navigating persistent depression, mood swings, or just starting to explore treatment options, know that healing is possible. At the Washington Area Clinical Center, we serve residents throughout Washington, D.C. and Maryland, including Prince George’s County, with a full range of mental health services.
Our team offers:
In-person appointments in Bowie, MD
Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy
Virtual care available across Maryland
Why Therapy Still Matters: The Role of CBT in Depression Treatment
While medications can reduce symptoms, they don’t address the underlying thought patterns and emotional wounds that contribute to depression. That’s where Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) comes in.
CBT is an evidence-based approach that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thinking, change unhelpful behaviors, and develop healthier coping skills. According to the American Psychological Association (2023), combining CBT with antidepressant medication is often the most effective strategy for long-term recovery.
At Washington Area Clinical Center, we offer both therapy and medication management under one roof—making it easier for residents in D.C. and Prince George’s County to access comprehensive care.
Local Depression Treatment Resources in D.C. and Prince George’s County
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, there are several professional resources available in the region:
- Prince George’s County Behavioral Health Services – Offers crisis support and counseling. Call 988 or text “MD” to 741741 for immediate help.
- University of Maryland ADePT Center – Specializes in treatment-resistant depression.
- Washington Area Clinical Center – Provides therapy and psychiatric medication management for depression and other mental health concerns.
For those seeking a more personalized and integrated approach, the Washington Area Clinical Center provides both counseling and medication services tailored to your unique
Ready to Prioritize Your Well-Being?
Call us at 301-701-6965 for a short chat with our Client Care Coordinator, who is available weekdays during our normal office hours. You can also fill out the New Patient Registration Form to be on your way to schedule and complete an initial assessment.
Sources
- American Psychological Association. (2023). Understanding psychotherapy and how it works. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy
- Prince George’s County Government. (2023). Behavioral Health Services. Retrieved from https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/health/behavioral-health-services
- University of Maryland Medical System. (2023). Advanced Depression Treatment Center (ADePT). Retrieved from https://www.umms.org/ummc/health-services/psychiatry/services/treatment-resistant-depression