Depression Treatment in Red Bank & Monmouth County, NJ
Depression Diagnosis and Treatment
You’ve been feeling “off” for weeks—maybe months. Getting out of bed feels like climbing a mountain. Things you used to enjoy now feel pointless. Friends and family tell you to “just cheer up” or “think positive,” but it’s not that simple. You’re exhausted, but you can’t sleep. You’re surrounded by people, but you feel utterly alone.
This isn’t weakness, laziness, or something you can simply “snap out of.” This is depression—a real medical condition affecting approximately 21 million American adults, making it one of the most common mental health disorders in the United States.[1]
At Kolli Psychiatry in Red Bank, New Jersey, our team of experienced psychiatric providers understands that depression is a treatable medical condition, not a character flaw or personal failure. We serve patients throughout Monmouth County and the Jersey Shore, including Red Bank, Middletown, Rumson, Fair Haven, Little Silver, Shrewsbury, Holmdel, Long Branch, Eatontown, Tinton Falls, Marlboro, Colts Neck, and surrounding central and coastal New Jersey communities. If you’ve been struggling with persistent sadness, loss of interest, or feelings of hopelessness, understanding depression is the first step toward feeling better.
What is Depression?
Depression, clinically known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a serious medical illness that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It’s not just feeling sad after a difficult event—it’s a persistent condition that interferes with your ability to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy life.
Depression involves changes in brain chemistry, particularly in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These chemical messengers regulate mood, motivation, sleep, appetite, and energy levels. When they’re out of balance, depression symptoms emerge.
Here’s what’s important to understand: Depression is not your fault. It’s not about being “negative” or lacking willpower. It’s a medical condition with biological, psychological, and environmental causes—and it’s highly treatable with the right support.
Think of depression like diabetes or high blood pressure. You wouldn’t tell someone with diabetes to “just produce more insulin.” Similarly, telling someone with depression to “just be happy” misunderstands the neurobiological nature of the condition.
Types of Depression
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Persistent depressed mood or loss of interest for at least two weeks with symptoms that significantly impair daily functioning. The most commonly diagnosed form.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Chronic depression lasting at least two years. While symptoms may be less severe than major depression, their long duration significantly impacts quality of life.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression following a seasonal pattern, typically beginning in fall/winter and improving in spring/summer. Affects about 5% of U.S. adults.
Postpartum Depression: Depression during pregnancy or after childbirth, affecting approximately 1 in 8 women. Different from the “baby blues” and requires professional treatment.
Other Forms: Bipolar depression (alternating with elevated mood), depression with psychotic features, and atypical depression (with increased sleep/appetite and rejection sensitivity).
Am I sad/lazy or depressed? What’s The Difference
|
Normal Sadness |
Clinical Depression |
| Triggered by a specific event | May occur without clear trigger |
| Improves with time (days to weeks) | Persists for weeks, months or even longer |
| Doesn’t significantly impair function | Interferes with work, relationships, daily life |
| Responds to support and self-care | Requires professional treatment |
| Occasional low mood | Persistent, pervasive hopelessness |
| Can still experience joy | Inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia) |
How do I know if I have Depression? Warning Signs
Note: Everyone experiences depression differently. You don’t need to have every symptom to have depression. If several of these resonate with you for two weeks or more, consider seeking professional evaluation.
Check if these signs feel familiar:
☐ Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood most of the day, nearly every day
☐ Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy (anhedonia)
☐ Significant changes in appetite or weight (increase or decrease)
☐ Sleep problems—insomnia or sleeping too much
☐ Physical restlessness or feeling slowed down
☐ Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day
☐ Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
☐ Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
☐ Thoughts of death or suicide
☐ Physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, or chronic pain
☐ Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
☐ Irritability or frustration, even over small matters
Many of our Monmouth County patients describe depression as “living in a gray fog” or “watching life happen without really being part of it.” Whether you’re in Red Bank, Middletown, Long Branch, Rumson, or surrounding communities throughout the Jersey Shore and central New Jersey, these symptoms deserve professional attention. One patient from Holmdel shared: “I wasn’t actively suicidal, but I also wasn’t really living. I was just existing, going through the motions.”
Other Conditions We Treat
What Causes Depression?
Depression develops from complex interactions of biological, psychological, and environmental factors:
Biological Factors: Brain chemistry imbalances in neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine), genetic predisposition (2-3x higher risk with family history), hormonal changes, and medical conditions like thyroid problems or chronic illness.
Psychological Factors: Trauma (especially childhood abuse), negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and history of other mental health conditions like anxiety disorders or PTSD.
Environmental and Social Factors: Significant life stress (job loss, divorce, financial problems), social isolation, childhood adversity, chronic stress, and substance use.
At our Red Bank practice serving Monmouth County, Ocean County, and Middlesex County, we see depression affecting people from all backgrounds and life circumstances—from college students at Monmouth University to professionals commuting to NYC from Red Bank and Middletown, from young parents in Rumson and Fair Haven to retirees along the Jersey Shore in Long Branch and Eatontown. Understanding your unique risk factors helps create a personalized treatment plan.
The Impact of Untreated Depression
Physical Health
Increases risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, weakens immune function, and worsens chronic pain..
Mental Health
Episodes become more frequent and severe over time. The risk of developing anxiety disorders or substance use problems increases.
Daily Life
Interferes with work performance, relationships, parenting, and daily responsibilities, often leading to financial difficulties or job loss.
Suicide Risk
Depression is a major risk factor for suicide, involved in approximately 60% of suicide deaths.
The Good News!
Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Between 80-90% of people eventually respond well to treatment, with many experiencing significant improvement within weeks.
Depression Treatment Options in Red Bank, NJ & Throughout Monmouth County
At Kolli Psychiatry, our team provides comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for depression throughout Monmouth County, Ocean County, and central New Jersey:
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation
At our Red Bank office, conveniently located in central Monmouth County near the Garden State Parkway (Exit 109), our team provides thorough evaluations for patients from Red Bank, Middletown, Rumson, Holmdel, Long Branch, Marlboro, and throughout the Shore area.
Thorough assessment including:
- Detailed history of symptoms and their impact
- Medical history and current physical health
- Evaluation of co-occurring mental health conditions
- Assessment of suicide risk and safety planning when needed
- Discussion of previous treatments and what has/hasn’t worked
- Consideration of biological, psychological, and social factors
Medication Management
Antidepressant medications help correct neurotransmitter imbalances. Our providers work with you to find the right medication and dosage:[2]
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): First-line treatment including sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro), and fluoxetine (Prozac).
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): Effective for depression with pain or fatigue, including venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
Other Antidepressants: Bupropion (Wellbutrin), mirtazapine (Remeron), and others may be appropriate depending on your specific needs.
Most antidepressants take 2-6 weeks for full effects. Finding the right medication may require trying more than one, and medication works best when combined with therapy.
Therapy Coordination
We provide and work closely with therapists who provide evidence-based treatments:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that maintain depression.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and communication patterns that contribute to depression.
Lifestyle and Support
We help you implement evidence-based lifestyle changes: sleep hygiene improvements, exercise (as effective as medication for mild-moderate depression), nutrition optimization, stress management, and social support enhancement.
Treatment Monitoring
Our Monmouth County team provides regular follow-up appointments, medication adjustments as needed, coordination with therapists, crisis management, and long-term maintenance planning to prevent relapse. Many patients start feeling better within 2-4 weeks, with continued improvement over 2-3 months.
Book an Appointment with a Top-Rated Psychiatrist in NJ
You deserve to feel better. At Kolli Psychiatry in Red Bank, our team has helped hundreds of Monmouth County residents find relief from depression through personalized, evidence-based treatment. Whether you’re in Red Bank, Middletown, Long Branch, or surrounding communities, compassionate expert care is available. The sooner you start treatment, the sooner you can start feeling like yourself again.
Frequently Asked Questions about Depression Treatment
How do I know if I need medication for depression?
Medication is typically recommended when depression is moderate to severe, significantly impairs functioning, or hasn’t responded to therapy alone. Mild depression may improve with therapy and lifestyle changes, but medication can be helpful if symptoms persist. Our Red Bank providers work with patients throughout Monmouth County to determine the best treatment approach based on your specific symptoms, history, and preferences. Many people benefit most from combining medication with therapy.
Will I need to take antidepressants forever?
Not necessarily. For a first episode of depression, many people take medication for 6-12 months after feeling better, then gradually taper off under medical supervision. However, if you’ve had multiple episodes of depression, longer-term or even indefinite treatment may be recommended to prevent relapse. Whether you’re receiving care at our Red Bank office or via telehealth from elsewhere in New Jersey, the decision should be individualized based on your history, risk factors, and preferences.
Do antidepressants change your personality?
No. Antidepressants don’t change who you are—they help restore your natural mood and functioning by correcting chemical imbalances. Many people report feeling “like myself again” after treatment. If you feel unlike yourself on medication, that’s a sign the medication or dose isn’t right for you, and you should discuss this with your provider.
Can therapy alone treat depression without medication?
For mild to moderate depression, therapy alone can be very effective. However, moderate to severe depression typically responds best to a combination of medication and therapy. Research consistently shows that combining treatments produces better outcomes than either approach alone. Your psychiatric provider can help determine what’s appropriate for your specific situation.
What if the first antidepressant doesn’t work?
It’s common to need adjustments. About 30% of people don’t respond adequately to the first antidepressant tried. Options include increasing the dose, switching to a different medication, or adding a second medication. Genetic testing can sometimes help guide medication selection. Most people eventually find an effective treatment with persistence.
Is depression a disability?
Depression can be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) if it substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as working, sleeping, concentrating, or caring for yourself. Many patients at our Monmouth County practice have successfully obtained workplace accommodations or disability benefits for severe depression. Whether depression qualifies as a disability depends on its severity and impact on your functioning. Our Red Bank team can provide documentation and work with you to navigate this process if needed.
Can depression be cured?
While we don’t typically use the word “cured,” many people achieve full remission from depression, meaning they have no symptoms and can function normally. With appropriate treatment, 80-90% of people with depression improve significantly. Some people have one episode and never experience depression again, while others manage it as a chronic condition with periods of wellness. At Kolli Psychiatry in Red Bank, we focus on helping patients throughout Monmouth County achieve and maintain recovery, whether that means short-term treatment or long-term management.
What is a depressant?
A depressant is a substance that slows down central nervous system activity—like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or sedatives. This is different from depression, the mental health condition. However, it’s important to know that using depressant substances (especially alcohol) can worsen depression or interfere with antidepressant medications. Our providers at Kolli Psychiatry in Red Bank evaluate substance use as part of comprehensive depression treatment for patients throughout Monmouth County and the Jersey Shore.
Can depression cause memory loss?
Yes. Depression significantly affects concentration, memory, and decision-making. Many patients in our Red Bank and Middletown offices report difficulty remembering appointments, conversations, or where they put things. This happens because depression affects the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—brain areas crucial for memory and executive function. The good news: these cognitive symptoms typically improve with depression treatment. If memory problems persist after depression improves, we evaluate for other causes.
Can Adderall cause depression?
Adderall (prescribed for ADHD) doesn’t typically cause depression, but the relationship is complex. Some people experience mood changes when Adderall wears off each day (called “comedown”). Others find that untreated ADHD symptoms were causing secondary depression, and treating ADHD actually improves mood. However, if you’re experiencing depression while taking Adderall, it’s important to discuss this with your provider. At our Red Bank office serving Monmouth County, we carefully monitor mood in patients taking stimulant medications and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
What is high functioning depression?
High functioning depression (often persistent depressive disorder or dysthymia) means you’re still managing daily responsibilities—going to work, taking care of family—but you’re constantly struggling, feeling empty, or just going through the motions. Many of our Holmdel, Rumson, and Middletown patients describe this: “Everyone thinks I’m fine because I’m still showing up, but I’m miserable inside.” High functioning depression is just as valid and treatable as more severe depression. You don’t have to be unable to get out of bed to deserve help.
Is major depressive disorder a disability?
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) can qualify as a disability under the ADA and for Social Security Disability benefits if it significantly impairs your ability to work or perform daily activities. Severity matters more than diagnosis alone. Our Red Bank team has extensive experience helping patients throughout Monmouth County and Ocean County document functional impairments for disability applications, workplace accommodations, or academic accommodations when appropriate.
Is depression neurodivergent?
This is debated in mental health communities. Neurodivergent typically refers to developmental differences like autism or ADHD that are present from childhood. Depression is usually considered a mental health condition rather than a neurodevelopmental difference. However, some people with chronic depression identify with neurodivergent communities, especially when depression co-occurs with ADHD or autism. At Kolli Psychiatry in Red Bank, we respect how patients understand their own experiences while providing evidence-based treatment throughout Monmouth County and central New Jersey.
What is the difference between anxiety and depression?
While anxiety and depression often occur together (about 60% of people with depression also have anxiety), they’re distinct conditions. Anxiety involves excessive worry, fear, physical tension, and avoidance of perceived threats. Depression involves persistent sadness, loss of interest, hopelessness, and low energy. However, many patients at our Red Bank and Long Branch offices experience both simultaneously. The good news: many treatments (certain antidepressants and CBT therapy) effectively treat both conditions. We provide comprehensive evaluation to address all co-occurring conditions.
ADHD and depression?
ADHD and depression commonly co-occur. Adults with ADHD have 2-3 times higher risk of depression, often because years of struggling with focus, organization, and time management lead to chronic stress, low self-esteem, and feelings of failure. Sometimes what looks like depression is actually untreated ADHD causing exhaustion and demoralization. Other times, both conditions exist independently. At our Red Bank office, we carefully evaluate both conditions in patients throughout Monmouth County, Middlesex County, and the Jersey Shore, treating each appropriately—sometimes ADHD treatment alone improves mood, other times both need direct treatment.
Supplements for depression?
Many patients ask about supplements like vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, SAM-e, or St. John’s Wort for depression. While some supplements show promise in research, they’re not regulated like medications, can have side effects, and may interact dangerously with antidepressants. At Kolli Psychiatry in Red Bank, we can discuss supplements as part of your comprehensive treatment plan, review current research, check for potential interactions with medications, and help you make informed decisions. We serve patients throughout Monmouth County and surrounding areas who want to explore all treatment options safely. Never start supplements without discussing with your psychiatric provider, especially if you’re taking antidepressants.
External References:
American Psychological Association
National Institute of Mental Health
Kolli Psychiatry | Red Bank, NJ | www.kollipsych.com
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
