Depression Treatment
When exhaustion, emotional numbness, and loss of joy interfere with your life, help is available. Premier Psychiatry offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management in Orland Park, Willowbrook and by telehealth. Advanced treatment options include Spravato®, offered at our Orland Park and Willowbrook offices, and TMS, offered at our Orland Park office.
Depression is a complex neurobiological condition, not a personal failing.
Depression is a common but serious medical condition. Research has linked it with changes in brain circuits that regulate mood, including the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, and it can cause deep sadness, trouble thinking clearly, and physical fatigue that willpower alone cannot overcome.
At Premier Psychiatry, we approach depression with scientific rigor and genuine empathy. Owned and led since 1999 by board-certified psychiatrist Pradeep Thapar, MD, FAPA, our practice begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the biological, genetic, and situational factors that may contribute to your depression.
Common Signs of Depression:
- Persistent Sadness: Prolonged feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that do not lift.
- Loss of Interest: Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies, work, and relationships you once enjoyed.
- Changes in Sleep and Appetite: Significant disruptions in sleep patterns and unintended weight changes.
- Fatigue and Low Energy: Persistent tiredness or low energy, even after rest.
- Trouble Thinking Clearly: Trouble concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions.
- Intense Emotional Weight: Excessive guilt, feelings of worthlessness or helplessness, and sometimes thoughts of death or suicide.
Why Have Previous Antidepressants Failed to Help?
If you have tried one or more antidepressant medications without lasting relief, you are not alone. In the NIMH-funded STAR*D study, about one-third of participants reached remission with their first antidepressant, and roughly one-third of those who stayed in the study had not reached remission after up to four treatment steps.
Genetic Differences in Metabolism
Genetic differences in liver enzymes (such as CYP2D6 and CYP2C19) can affect how quickly your body processes some psychiatric medications. Poor metabolizers may have higher drug levels and more side effects, while ultra-rapid metabolizers may have lower levels, which can reduce a medication's effect.
Missed Medical Mimics
Medical conditions such as thyroid problems, sleep disorders, or vitamin deficiencies can cause or worsen depressive symptoms, and depression that is part of bipolar disorder may respond differently to antidepressants. A careful evaluation helps identify these factors.
Monoamine Limitations
Most standard antidepressants act mainly on monoamines (serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine). Research also points to other pathways, such as glutamate signaling and neuroplasticity, and treatments such as Spravato® and TMS work differently from standard antidepressants.
Our Approach to Depression Treatment
From careful medication management to treatments such as Spravato® and TMS, your provider can discuss the options that may fit your needs.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
Care begins with an in-depth psychiatric evaluation. Your clinician reviews your psychiatric history, previous medication trials, family history, daily routines, and any co-occurring anxiety or trauma to understand your symptoms and the factors contributing to them.
Thoughtful Medication Management & GeneSight®
We take a collaborative approach to finding and adjusting medications with you. When appropriate, a GeneSight® cheek-swab test can show how your genes may affect the way your body processes certain medications. The results can help inform, but do not determine, medication choices.
Spravato® (Esketamine) REMS Program
For adults with Treatment-Resistant Depression, Spravato® is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray that acts on the brain's glutamate system. It is given only in REMS-certified healthcare settings, with monitoring for at least 2 hours after each dose. Spravato® is offered at our Orland Park and Willowbrook offices. Ask our office about eligibility and next steps.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
TMS therapy uses focused magnetic pulses, similar in strength to an MRI, to stimulate the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, an area involved in mood regulation. It is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia or sedation, does not cause medication side effects such as weight gain, and most people can drive themselves home afterward.
Clinical Guides & Decision Resources
Learn more about depression treatment options with our patient education guides.
Spravato® vs. Oral Antidepressants
Key differences in biological mechanism, speed of onset, and clinical indications.
What is TMS Therapy?
A patient's complete guide to electromagnetic brain stimulation for depression.
Am I a Candidate for TMS?
Who may be a candidate, insurance considerations, and contraindications.
Medication & Therapy Combined
How combining medication with psychotherapy can help many people with depression.
Insurance Coverage
Coverage varies by plan. Please call our office to confirm whether your plan is accepted before your first visit.
Ask our office about coverage for specific services, such as Spravato® and TMS.
Urgent Medical & Crisis Support
If you are having active thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out for immediate, confidential assistance. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency department.