Comprehensive Depression Care for Children, Adolescents, and Adults

Feeling sad, discouraged, or emotionally exhausted from time to time is part of the human experience. However, when low mood, loss of interest, changes in energy, or difficulty functioning persist for weeks or longer, they may reflect a depressive disorder rather than a temporary response to stress.

At Ficus Psych, Gregory Sayer, MD provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and individualized treatment for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing depression. Care is guided by a thoughtful assessment of biological, psychological, developmental, and social factors so that treatment is tailored to each person's unique situation.

Depression is treatable, and many people can experience meaningful improvement with appropriate evaluation and evidence-based care.

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What Is a Depressive Episode?

A depressive episode can be seen in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or in Bipolar disorder. This kind of episode is more than simply feeling sad. It is a medical condition that can affect mood, thinking, energy, motivation, sleep, appetite, concentration, relationships, and physical health.

Some people may experience persistent sadness, while others may primarily notice fatigue, irritability, loss of motivation, or difficulty enjoying activities that were once meaningful.

Depression can affect people of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms vary from person to person but may include:

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent sadness or low mood

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

• Feelings of hopelessness (pos

• Increased irritability

• Excessive guilt

• Suicidal thoughts

Physical Symptoms

• Low energy

• Fatigue

• Changes in sleep

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Slowed movement or restlessness

• Reduced libido

Cognitive Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating

• Memory difficulties

• Reduced motivation

Functional Symptoms

Depression may interfere with:

• Work performance

• Academic achievement

• Parenting

• Relationships

• Social engagement

• Self-care

• Household responsibilities

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Depression Across the Lifespan

Depression in Children

Children may exhibit signs and symptoms like:

• Irritability

• Frequent physical complaints

• School difficulties

• Social withdrawal

• Declining academic performance

• Behavioral changes

Depression in Adolescents

Teenagers may experience:

• Withdrawal from friends

• Loss of motivation

• Academic decline

• Increased irritability

• Changes in sleep

• Difficulty planning for the future

Depression in adolescents may look different from depression in adults, making careful assessment especially important.

Depression in Adults

Adults may experience:

• Persistent low mood

• Reduced productivity

• Difficulty concentrating

• Relationship difficulties

• Loss of enjoyment in previously meaningful activities

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How Depression Is Diagnosed

There is no laboratory test or brain scan that confirms depression.

A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation includes consideration of:

• Current symptoms

• Medical history

• Psychiatric history

• Family history

• Developmental history

• Previous treatments

• Medications

• Sleep patterns

• Substance use

• Psychosocial stressors

• Functional impairment

The evaluation also considers whether symptoms may reflect another psychiatric or medical condition requiring a different treatment approach.

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Treatment for Depression

Treatment is individualized based on symptom severity, history, medical factors, and personal preferences.

Recommendations may include one or more of the following.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can help individuals better understand emotional patterns, improve coping skills, strengthen relationships, and address psychological factors contributing to depression.

Treatment may include:

• Psychodynamic psychotherapy

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)

• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) 

• Supportive psychotherapy

• Family involvement when appropriate

Different therapeutic approaches may be recommended depending on the individual's goals and clinical presentation.

Medication

For some individuals, antidepressant medication may reduce symptoms and improve functioning.

Medication recommendations are made collaboratively after discussing:

• Potential benefits

• Possible risks

• Side effects

• Previous treatment history

• Medical conditions

• Patient preferences

Medication is one treatment option and may not be appropriate or necessary for every individual experiencing depression.

Lifestyle and Wellness Factors

Treatment may also address:

• Sleep

• Exercise

• Nutrition

• Substance use

• Stress management

• Social support

• Daily routines

These factors often interact with depression and can influence recovery.

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Depression Frequently Occurs Alongside Other Conditions

Depression commonly co-occurs with:

• Anxiety disorders

• ADHD

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Trauma-related disorders

• Substance use disorders

• Personality disorders

• Sleep disorders

• Chronic medical illnesses

Recognizing co-occurring conditions helps ensure that treatment addresses the complete clinical picture rather than focusing on one diagnosis alone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I should see a psychiatrist for depression?

If symptoms are persistent, interfere with work, school, relationships, or daily functioning, or have not improved with self-care or previous treatment, a psychiatric evaluation may help clarify the diagnosis and discuss evidence-based treatment options.

Is depression different from grief?

Yes. Although grief and depression can share overlapping features, they are distinct experiences. A psychiatric evaluation can help determine whether symptoms reflect a normal response to loss, a depressive disorder, or both.

Is medication always necessary?

No. Some individuals benefit from psychotherapy alone, while others benefit from medication or a combination of treatments. Recommendations are individualized based on each person's circumstances and goals.

Can depression occur together with anxiety or ADHD?

Yes. Depression frequently occurs alongside anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, and other psychiatric conditions. Identifying these co-occurring conditions is an important part of developing an effective treatment plan.

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Depression Evaluation & Treatment at Ficus Psych

Ficus Psych provides comprehensive depression evaluations and individualized treatment for children, adolescents, and adults.

Gregory Sayer, MD is board certified in both adult psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry. His approach emphasizes careful diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and an understanding of the biological, psychological, and interpersonal factors that contribute to depression.

Treatment is available through in-person appointments in Beverly Hills and telepsychiatry for patients throughout California and New York.

If depression has begun to affect your work, school, relationships, or overall quality of life, a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation can help clarify the diagnosis and identify treatment options that align with your individual needs.

👉 Contact Ficus Psych today to schedule an introductory phone call.

Ficus Psych | 8500 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills CA 90211