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Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness and worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with depression, unhappiness, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity.
As a trusted psychiatrist for depression, Dr. Ambardar understands the profound impact depression can have on your daily life. That's why we offer a personalized approach that goes beyond managing symptoms. We'll create a supportive space where you can explore the root causes of your struggles and we'll develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the underlying factors contributing to your pain.
Sheenie Ambardar, MD is a Los Angeles-based Depression Psychiatrist, Psychotherapist, and Coach who sees patients throughout California and New York via telehealth. Dr. Ambardar specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of adult men and women with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, and a host of other common mental health concerns.
Are you experiencing any of these conditions? Integrative psychiatry may be the solution you need. At The Happiness Psychiatrist®, we address the root causes of these issues—and many more—as well as give you the resources to build a fuller, happier life.
What is Depression?
Depression is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects not only the mind but also the body and soul. From a holistic perspective, depression can be seen as a disconnection from our true, authentic selves – a separation from the inner intuition that guides us towards purpose, meaning, and fulfillment.
Depression is the Opposite of Expression
In many ways, depression is the opposite of expression. When we're depressed, we often feel like we're wearing a mask, hiding our true thoughts, feelings, and personality from the world. We may feel like we're living a life that doesn't align with our values, passions, interests, or desires, and that we're suppressing our authentic selves in order to meet others' expectations. This lack of authenticity can create a deep sense of emptiness, despair, and loneliness.
Depression is a Disconnection from our Higher Selves
From a spiritual perspective, depression can be seen as a disconnection from our higher selves – the wise, loving, and eternal part of us that is connected to universal consciousness and the divine. When we lose touch with this sense of connection or oneness, we may feel lost, confused, and without purpose. We may struggle to find meaning or hope in our lives, feeling like we're simply going through the motions without any real sense of direction or fulfillment.
Depression is a Suppression of Our True Emotions
Psychologically-speaking, depression can be understood as a suppression of our true emotions, thoughts, and needs. When we experience painful or difficult emotions, such as sadness, anger, or fear, we may try to push them away or numb them with distractions or unhealthy coping mechanisms. Over time, this emotional suppression can lead to a buildup of unresolved feelings and a sense of being stuck or trapped in our own minds and bodies.
Depression can be due to an Imbalance of Neurotransmitters
From a biological perspective, depression is thought to be caused by an imbalance in brain neurotransmitters, the chemicals that regulate our moods, thoughts, and behaviors. When levels of these chemical messengers (e.g., serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, GABA, norepinephrine, etc) are disrupted, it can lead to the development of various mental health conditions, including depression. These chemical imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, stress, trauma, and chronic inflammation in the body.
Depression can be due to our Environment
The environment around us can strongly contribute to Depression. When we're surrounded by negative, mean-spirited, or toxic people, it can take a real toll on our mental well-being, especially if we're a highly sensitive person. We may absorb this negative energy and start to believe the critical or hurtful messages that we hear, leading to feelings of unworthiness, self-doubt, and despair.
Whether or not Freud actually said this, the advice is solid ☔️
Depression can be due to Nutrient and Hormonal Imbalances
From a functional medicine perspective, depression can be seen as a symptom of underlying imbalances in the body that affect the brain's ability to function optimally. These imbalances can stem from a variety of factors, including:
Nutrient Deficiencies
Chronic Inflammation
Gut Dysbiosis and
Hormonal Imbalances
For example, deficiencies in key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and magnesium have been linked to an increased risk of depression. Similarly, chronic inflammation in the body, often driven by factors like diet, stress, and environmental toxins, can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in the brain and contribute to depressive symptoms.
Depression can feel like we're wearing a mask - hiding our true thoughts, feelings, and personality from the world
How Does a Psychiatrist Diagnose Depression?
Understanding Your Experience:How We Diagnose Depression
Depression often feels heavy, isolating, and all-consuming. Here at The Happiness Psychiatrist®, we take a compassionate approach to diagnosing depression, focusing on your unique experience and working together to find your path to feeling better.
Here's what you can expect during our appointments for depression:
Open Conversation: We'll have a warm and open conversation about how you've been feeling. There are no wrong answers here. Dr. Ambardar wants to hear your story – when you started noticing changes in your mood, how it affects your daily life, and anything else that feels important to share.
Exploring Your Symptoms: Together, we'll explore the emotional and physical symptoms you're experiencing. This might include things like changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, feelings of hopelessness and sadness, or a loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy.
Understanding the Full Picture: We don't just focus on depression in isolation. We'll also discuss your medical history, family history of mental health, personal relationships, and any recent stressors in your life. Sometimes, depression can co-occur with other health conditions, and it's important to get a complete picture.
Standardized Assessments: In addition to our conversation, Dr. Ambardar might use a standardized questionnaire, such as the PHQ-9, to help us gather more information about your symptoms. These are simply tools to provide additional insights, not definitive tests.
Considering Underlying Causes: There can be many contributing factors to depression, including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and chronic health conditions. We may recommend additional lab testing to rule these out or explore if they're playing a role.
We treat all types of depression at The Happiness Psychiatrist®, including major depression, PMDD, postpartum depression, perimenopausal depression, and seasonal affective disorder
Throughout this process, Dr. Ambardar will listen actively, ask clarifying questions, and be here to support you. Our goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences and we'll work towards a diagnosis that feels right for you.
Remember, a diagnosis is simply a starting point. It helps us understand your experiences and develop a personalized treatment plan.
We want you to know that we are committed to providing holistic and compassionate care to help you overcome depression and achieve better mental health. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, reach out today to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.
What Does a Psychiatrist do for Depression?
At The Happiness Psychiatrist®, we believe in a whole-person approach to treating depression and we utilize a wide range of therapies and interventions tailored to your unique needs.
As an integrative psychiatrist for depression, Dr. Ambardar understands the importance of addressing all aspects of a person's being – mind, body, and spirit – in order to promote true healing and transformation. Our approach is centered on helping you reconnect with your authentic self, identify and express your true emotions and needs, and cultivate a deep sense of self-love and self-acceptance.
Through a personalized combination of medication, psychotherapy, meditation, and other holistic techniques, we'll peel back the layers of your depression and rediscover the vibrant, resilient, and whole person underneath. By exploring the root causes of disconnection and emotional pain, we'll work together to create a personalized plan for healing and growth.
Whether it's learning to set healthy boundaries, practicing self-compassion, or connecting with a higher purpose, there are many paths to overcoming depression and reclaiming your true self. Dr. Ambardar is committed to walking alongside you on this journey and providing the guidance, support, and tools you need to transform your life from the inside out.
If you're ready to break free from the mask of depression and step into a more authentic, honest version of yourself, we invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation today. Together, we'll explore the factors contributing to your emotional pain and develop a holistic plan for healing and empowerment. You deserve to live a life filled with joy, purpose, and authentic expression – and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Here's a bit more of what you can expect when you make the decision to work with us:
Medication Management for Depression
If appropriate, we may suggest low-dose medications to help alleviate your depression symptoms. Dr. Ambardar believes in using psychiatric medications thoughtfully, starting with the lowest effective dose to help manage your mood.
In addition to well known antidepressant medications like Lexapro or Prozac, we may suggest newer depression medications like Trintellix and Auvelity or mood stabilizers like Lamictal and Topamax.
Every patient's history and response to medication is different and we luckily have a large toolbox of helpful medications to choose from.
Psychotherapy for Depression
Dr. Ambardar may suggest various forms of therapy, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Inner Child Work, interpersonal therapy, solution-focused therapy, outdoor walking therapy, meditation, or art & journal therapy.
These therapies can help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, improve your relationships, and develop a loving, authentic relationship with yourself. Our goal is for you to leave each therapy session feeling lighter, brighter, and more supported in your journey.
Nutraceuticals and Supplements for Depression
We might recommend pharmaceutical-grade supplements and nutraceuticals to help support your mental health such as:
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which have been shown to have mood-stabilizing properties.
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) are involved in the production of neurotransmitters and may help alleviate depression symptoms.
Vitamin D, methylfolate, and probiotics are also known to play a role in mood regulation.
Nutraceuticals, supplements, and botanicals can be used as adjuncts to help treat Depression
Botanicals for Depression
If desired, certain botanicals and herbal remedies may be incorporated into your treatment plan.
For example, Saffron, a spice derived from the Crocus sativus flower, has shown promise in reducing depression symptoms.
Another botanical, Rhodiola rosea, which is an adaptogenic herb, may help improve mood and reduce stress-related fatigue.
Lifestyle Modifications for Depression
Dr. Ambardar can also work with you to help identify lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your depression and recommend small changes to help support your well-being.
These may include suggestions to stay away from toxic, critical people, gentle exercise (walking or stretching), balanced nutrition (less saturated fat and sugar), stress management techniques (e.g., meditation and Kundalini Yoga), better sleep hygiene, and nurturing more positive social connections.
Begin Your Healing Journey out of Depression 🦋
Throughout your healing journey, we'll provide a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can openly express yourself, gradually rediscover who you truly are, and feel a bit less burdened. Recovery from depression is absolutely possible, and we're dedicated to helping you find a sense of joy, meaning, & happiness in your life.
Are you ready to break free from depression's grip and rediscover your true, authentic self? Contact Dr. Ambardar today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards feeling happier.
You Deserve To Feel Happier
At The Happiness Psychiatrist®, award-winning psychiatrist and psychotherapist Dr. Sheenie Ambardar can help you unlock your best, most authentic self through expert care, including:
