Major Depressive Disorder
Compassionate, evidence-based treatment for depression — including treatment-resistant cases.
Overview
What it is.
Medically reviewed by Peter Scheid, MD
Medical Director, SILC Health
Clinically reviewed by Christina Kayanan, LMFT, LPCC
Clinical Director, Mental Health Services — SILC Health
Last reviewed: June 16, 2026
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is more than sadness or a rough patch. It's a serious medical condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, sleeps, and functions — for weeks, months, or longer. An estimated 21 million U.S. adults experience a major depressive episode each year. Many never seek treatment, often because depression itself convinces them nothing will help.
Depression has biological, psychological, and social roots, and it responds to treatment. Most people improve with the right combination of therapy, medication, structure, and time — even those who haven't responded to past attempts. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it's the most rational response to a treatable illness.
Signs
What it looks like.
Recognizing the pattern is often the hardest part. None of these alone confirms a diagnosis — but a cluster of them is worth taking seriously.
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness most of the day
- Loss of interest in things that used to bring joy
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Fatigue or low energy, even with rest
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Thoughts of death or suicide (please reach out — call or text 988)
Our Approach
How SILC treats it.
SILC Health treats depression across the full continuum of care, matched to severity. For someone in acute crisis or at risk to themselves, inpatient stabilization comes first. For depression that's significantly impairing daily function but not requiring 24-hour safety monitoring, residential or partial hospitalization (PHP) provides structured days of therapy in a supportive environment. For moderate symptoms, IOP or traditional outpatient care is often the right fit.
Treatment combines evidence-based psychotherapy (CBT, behavioral activation, interpersonal therapy), medication management by our psychiatric team, and lifestyle work — sleep, movement, nutrition, and social reconnection. For treatment-resistant depression that hasn't responded to first-line approaches, we coordinate referrals for advanced options including TMS and ketamine-assisted therapy at partner facilities.
If SILC isn't the right fit, our admissions team will help you find a trusted partner facility that is.
Therapies & Modalities
FAQ
Common questions.
Will I have to take medication forever?
Not necessarily. Some people benefit from short-term medication during an acute episode and taper off; others stay on it long-term. Decisions are made between you and your psychiatrist based on your history and how you respond. Medication is one tool, not the only one.
What is treatment-resistant depression?
Depression that hasn't improved after two or more adequate trials of antidepressants is considered treatment-resistant. It's more common than people think — about 30% of cases. Newer treatments (TMS, ketamine-assisted therapy, esketamine) can help when traditional approaches haven't. We can coordinate access to these at partner facilities.
What level of care do I need?
It depends on safety, functional impact, and support at home. Active suicidal thoughts with a plan typically need inpatient stabilization. Inability to maintain basic daily function often warrants residential or PHP. Moderate depression with a stable home life is often best served by IOP or outpatient. Our admissions team helps determine the right level on intake.
How long does depression treatment take?
Acute treatment (residential / PHP) typically runs 2–6 weeks. Continuing outpatient care often runs 6–12 months or longer. Most people start to feel better within a few weeks of starting effective treatment, but sustained recovery takes longer.
Does insurance cover depression treatment?
Most major insurance plans cover medically necessary mental health treatment under federal parity laws. Our admissions team verifies your benefits before you commit to anything.
Related
You may also be looking for
Anxiety Disorders
Structured, evidence-based treatment for generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, and related conditions.
Bipolar Disorder
Specialized treatment for bipolar I, bipolar II, and related mood disorders.
Co-Occurring Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
Integrated treatment for substance use and mental health conditions — treated together, not one at a time.
Trauma & Adverse Childhood Experiences
Treatment for complex trauma, childhood adversity, and the long shadows trauma can cast on adult life.
Talk to admissions
One conversation can change the trajectory.
Whether SILC is the right fit or not, we'll listen and help you find a path forward.