Navigating Depression Treatment In Brooklyn: Your Options

20 October 2023

In the diverse and bustling borough of Brooklyn, NY, countless individuals silently wrestle with the pervasive tendrils of depression. However, the journey towards mental wellness can often seem like an insurmountable challenge, particularly when faced alone. Yet, recognizing that you, or someone close to you, needs depression treatment is a pivotal first step towards healing.

Within the vibrant communities of Brooklyn, an array of options for depression therapy is accessible, each tailored to meet distinct needs and preferences. From traditional therapeutic approaches to modern, innovative strategies, let’s navigate through the myriad of depression treatment options available in Brooklyn, NY.

Understanding Depression: A Prelude to Treatment

Before diving into the various alternatives for depression treatment in Brooklyn, comprehending the multifaceted nature of depression is paramount.

Moreover, depression is more than mere sadness; it encapsulates a spectrum of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms that impair daily functioning and diminish quality of life. Seeking professional depression treatment is crucial in managing these symptoms and facilitating recovery.

Therapy and Counseling Services in Brooklyn

One of the most common and highly recommended forms of treatment for depression is therapy or counseling. Brooklyn offers a diverse array of mental health professionals who can provide various therapeutic approaches, including:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely practiced therapy. At the same time, it assists the individuals and, at the same time, pinpoints the negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to their depression. Many therapists in Brooklyn trained themselves in CBT techniques.

Psychodynamic Therapy

This form of therapy focuses on exploring the root causes of depression by delving into unconscious emotions and thoughts. Psychodynamic therapists in Brooklyn can assist you in uncovering and addressing deep-seated issues.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness techniques can assist individuals in managing depressive symptoms by teaching them to stay present and non-judgmentally observe their thoughts and emotions. Several therapists in Brooklyn incorporate mindfulness into their practice.

Group Therapy

Participating in group therapy sessions with individuals facing similar challenges can provide a sense of community and support. Brooklyn hosts numerous group therapy sessions focused on depression management.

Medication Management in Brooklyn

In some cases, medication may be a necessary component of depression treatment. Psychiatrists in Brooklyn can assess your condition and prescribe appropriate antidepressant medications if deemed necessary. It’s important to remember that one uses medication in conjunction with therapy to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Working closely with a psychiatrist can help ensure that the medication prescribed is tailored to your specific needs. Regular follow-up appointments will allow for adjustments as needed to manage side effects and optimize effectiveness.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy

TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a non-invasive treatment that has gained recognition for its potential in treating depression, especially when other methods have proven less effective.

During TMS therapy, magnetic pulses are delivered to specific regions of the brain associated with mood regulation. This stimulation can lead to improvements in depressive symptoms.

Many TMS clinics in Brooklyn offer this treatment, and it’s often used for individuals who have not responded well to medication or therapy alone. TMS can be a valuable addition to your depression treatment plan, and it’s worth discussing with your mental health provider.

Holistic Approaches to Depression Treatment

Brooklyn’s holistic wellness scene offers various alternative and complementary approaches to managing depression. These can be used alongside traditional therapies or as standalone treatments, depending on your preferences and needs:

Yoga and Meditation

Many yoga studios and meditation centers in Brooklyn offer classes and workshops designed to promote mental well-being. At te same time, these practices can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and alleviate depressive symptoms.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is gaining popularity as a complementary treatment for depression. Notably, some practitioners in Brooklyn specialize in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine to address physical and emotional imbalances.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Coaching

Nutrition plays a significant role in mental health. Working with a nutritionist or lifestyle coach in Brooklyn can help you make dietary and lifestyle changes that support your emotional well-being.

Support Groups in Brooklyn

Finding a community of people who understand what you’re going through can be immensely helpful when dealing with depression. Also Brooklyn hosts a variety of support groups where individuals can share their experiences, exchange coping strategies, and receive emotional support. Whether you’re looking for in-person or online support, you can find a group that suits your needs.

Integrated Treatment Approaches

Acknowledging and respecting the complexity of each individual’s experience with depression, integrating multiple treatment modalities can often provide the most comprehensive and effective approach to care. This includes combining pharmacotherapy, talk therapies, and alternative treatments to holistically address the myriad symptoms and challenges posed by depression.

Finding Your Fit: Selecting the Right Depression Therapy in Brooklyn

Embarking on a therapeutic journey demands consideration and selection from amongst the wealth of depression therapy options in Brooklyn. Here’s a primer on how to select a therapy type and therapist that aligns with your or your loved one’s unique needs:

Credentials and Specializations: Ensure therapists are licensed and explore their areas of specialization to ensure they are equipped to guide your therapeutic journey.
Therapy Style: Consider the therapeutic approach and style that resonates most with you, whether it be a structured, directive approach or a more explorative, supportive style.
Logistics: Factor in location, availability, and insurance coverage to ensure sustainability and accessibility of treatment.

Final Thoughts

Navigating depression treatment in Brooklyn may feel overwhelming amidst the sea of available options. Yet, armed with information and support, taking those initial steps toward healing and recovery becomes a journey of empowerment and hope. Engage with the rich tapestry of treatment modalities, therapists, and support available in Brooklyn, NY, to carve out a personalized path toward mental wellness.

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Ankita Tripathy

Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory In Adult Gerontology Nursing

Any Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), or individual considering moving into this booming area, will probably be aware that it involves more than supporting patients through short term illnesses or meeting their needs in a hospital or nursing home. As a rule, the older a patient gets, the more likely they are to experience chronic health complications which interfere with their day-to-day tasks. For much of history, such patients were written off, encouraged to take to their beds and be supported entirely by others, doing very little. They often didn’t live very long. But all that changed on account of one remarkable nurse, Dorothea Orem, whose legacy continues to shape the nursing profession today. This article examines her groundbreaking self-care deficit theory and looks at how AGNPs might use it for their nursing career. Dorothea Orem Dorothea Orem was born in Baltimore in 1914 and studied nursing in the late 1930s. This was a time when nursing schools were still a new phenomenon and there was a lot of experimental thinking in the nascent profession. Though she spent time on the wards as a staff nurse, she also worked as an administrator and consultant over the course of her career, spending her later years focusing on theory. A naturally focused and attentive person, she soon began recording observations about the patients she worked with, leading to her self-care deficit theory of nursing, for which she strongly advocated for her entire life. It was theory which, in its early years, transformed the way nurses thought about patients and their duties. It laid the foundations for nursing today. Universal Self-Care Requisites Orem’s theory recognizes eight universal self-care requisites, or SCRs. Here, universal refers to things every human needs, regardless of circumstance. Air is needed for respiration. Water is needed to maintain a healthy level of hydration. Food is needed to maintain healthy energy levels and prevent starvation. Elimination or toileting, a polite way of referring to the expulsion of urine and feces from the body, is required too. In addition to these four things, Orem posits that every patient needs a balance of physical activity and rest. Everyone needs social interaction, but also some alone time. People need to manage their lives to avoid or remove hazards, and, finally, they need to promote normality. This means that they need to achieve and maintain a way of living and relating to the world which is normal for them as individuals and does not involve psychosis. Health Deviation Self-Care Requisites When patients are recovering from injury or illness, or living with a chronic illness or disability, they can be described as experiencing a health deviation. This is not pejorative – it simply establishes that they differ from the norm. Health deviations are more common in older demographics, as they have additional self-care requisites. These requisites include following doctors’ instructions (taking medicine on time), identifying problems caused by their conditions and attending to them effectively (sitting down until a dizzy spell passes), and knowing when and how to seek help from a caregiver or healthcare professional. It is also important that these patients can understand and accept that their bodies have changed and can adjust psychologically to cope with it. What Is A Self-Care Deficit? A self-care deficit occurs when people are no longer able to carry out basic tasks. This can be because a disability makes them physically impossible to perform, or a number of other reasons. For example, some people get so overwhelmed by the way their bodies have changed that they stop trying to live. This doesn’t mean that they don’t deserve sympathy – it is an understandable response to an extreme situation – but it might mean that there is potential for improvement. For some people, self-care deficits are permanent or are likely to worsen due to progressive illnesses. For others, however, they can be temporary, even in extreme old age. Self-care deficits stemming from a broken arm, for example, will normally dissipate after the arm heals, but this is less likely if the patient has learned to feel helpless in the meantime. Assessment, Diagnosis, And Implementation When using Orem’s theory, nurses have three steps to work through. The first is undertaken during the initial assessment of a new patient and involves identifying any self-care deficits. These are not always obvious from looking at a patient and the process may require gentle but persistent questioning. Some people may be embarrassed and hesitant to talk if they are unable to care for themselves. The second involves full diagnosis of the deficits, including establishing causes. The third step is to draw up a treatment plan based on these diagnoses. In her work, Orem stressed the importance of recognizing that every patient is a unique individual, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach to this type of planning. In each case, AGNPs will need to work with the patient to establish the most effective way forward. Five Ways Nurses Can Help There are five strategies nurses can use to address self-care deficits when establishing patient care plans: For the most severely incapacitated patients, it may be necessary to perform actions on their behalf, such as washing or dressing them. Patients struggling mentally or who lack confidence can be guided through actions, ideally to the point of independence. Patients can be taught new ways of approaching day to day tasks which make them easier to accomplish, such as taking a break to have a shower in the afternoon if it is too hard to find the energy at other times. AGNPs can focus on the patient’s environment, making it easier for them to carry out self-care activities, such as suggesting kitchen gadgets to reduce the physical effort involved in preparing meals. Finally, AGNPs can train a family caregiver to provide appropriate support. These five strategies involve numerous actions, skills, and tools that nurses can use. Patients may need particular assistance with the following tasks. Helping With Eating Patients should always be encouraged to do as much for themselves as is reasonably possible. When it comes to eating, nurses should start with encouragement. Many older people lose their appetite and don’t feel motivated to eat, especially when it requires effort. So, an AGNP can point out that they have more energy when they manage to eat regular meals. If the patient can get food to their mouth by themselves, nurses should resist the temptation to assist, even if they sometimes drop the food. Instead, nurses can reassure them that this is not uncommon and all they need to do is take a little more time. Nurses should also be alert to the possibility of choking issues and arrange X-rays if concerned. If some food proves difficult to eat, they can discuss the possibility of dietary adjustments. Helping With Toileting Nurses should reassure patients that, awkward as they may feel, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. The nurse must ensure they can transfer on and off the toilet safely and consider options like raising the height of the seat or installing grab. If there is a risk of falling, AGNPs may suggest bedpans for use when no caregiver is present. If adult diapers are needed, nurses should ensure that patients know how and when to change them (even if they are not soiled) and how to protect their skin against rashes or bruises caused by wearing them. Finally, nurses can also discuss medical options for softening stools or speeding up or slowing down digestive transit. Helping With Dressing And Grooming A balance must be struck between helping patients be more independent in dressing and grooming themselves and enabling them to maintain a style or standard of appearance that is natural for them. Some older men prefer to be clean shaven but end up growing beards because it is easier to trim a beard than it is to shave safely and neatly, for example. Some clothing options can be easier to get into than others, depending on a patient’s particular mobility difficulties. Simple devices such as a stick with a hook on the end can make adjusting the back of a garment or doing up a zip much easier. Nurses should pay particular attention to footwear to make sure patients can stand or walk safely. Reducing Hazards Whether a nurse is helping a patient to move around and complete self-care tasks in a hospital ward, a care home, or their own home, they must always pay attention to hazard prevention. Hazards can include mess, a layout created without regard for disability, or other people or pets moving around. Nurses can start by ensuring that the patient is aware of the risks and can recognize dangerous situations. They should discuss simple measures like installing handrails or changing routines to make it easier to keep the area tidy. Nurses can also ensure that the patient can summon help if something goes wrong, by persuading them to install an alarm system or carry a charged mobile phone at all times, for example. Care With Communication Often, older patients who have self-care deficits also have difficulty with communication, whether due to physical or cognitive disability. Depending on their lifestyle in recent years, they may also be unfamiliar with modern technologies, but shy about admitting this. It is important for nurses to make sure that when they are addressing issues around essential needs, the patient understand them properly and vice versa. It can be helpful to use pictures in communication, which are often available in support materials. When meeting a patient in the place they are going to be living, the nurse and patient can explore it together (in stages, if necessary) so both parties can directly identify issues. Seeing Each Patient As An Individual An essential tenet of Orem’s theory is that patients must be treated as individuals. This increases the chance that they will stick to treatment plans, as well as directly improving their psychological wellbeing. Any nurse that’s interested in Orem’s theory and is considering joining this field will be looking into gerontology nurse practitioner programs online. The best courses place a lot of emphasis on adaptability and on learning how to manage different types of patients in different environments. The program at the University of Indianapolis, for example, encourages students to develop the patience and listening skills essential to getting to know patients and making them a part of the process. This communication and relationship building is essential to developing plans which will really benefit patients over the long term. The course at the University of Indianapolis is an eight-semester program designed for working nurses, involving part-time study and an intensive clinical placement. The Nursing Profession Continues To Benefit Thanks to Orem and her self-care deficit theory, patients are no longer left to waste away as they begin to struggle with old age. Generations of nurses who have practiced this theory have observed that, even in later life, patients can often improve and regain their self- care abilities with the right support. Advances in assistive technologies continue to make this even easier. The right support, focused on facilitating and encouraging independence, enables seniors to go on living satisfying lives on their own terms for much longer. Even when they need extensive practical support, giving them more control helps to maintain their morale and ability to navigate the final chapter of their lives. In the process of providing this support, AGNPs also get what they really want; to see their patients thrive, no matter what they must overcome to achieve it. Additionals: 8 Awesome Health Benefits Of Dark Chocolate Psychedelic Therapy for Mental Health Conditions How Does Children’s Health Impact Parental Lifestyle?

10 Hidden Dangers Of DIY Pest Control

In the never-ending battle against household pests, many homeowners are tempted by the allure of do-it-yourself (DIY) pest control methods. At first glance, these DIY solutions seem to offer a quick, easy, and economical way to manage pest problems. However, this surface-level appeal masks a variety of hidden dangers. Beyond the immediate risks associated with mishandling chemicals or traps, there are significant long-term implications to consider. Ineffective pest management can lead to recurring infestations, structural damages, and even health hazards. Professional preventive pest control is a crucial strategy for keeping our homes safe and pest-free, so if you’re considering taking matters into your own hands instead of trusting in the professionals, you must understand the risks and limitations of DIY approaches. This article will explore the ten hidden dangers of DIY pest control, highlighting why professional intervention is often safer and more practical. Misidentification Of Pests One of the most common and critical errors in DIY pest control is the misidentification of pest species. This mistake can lead to the application of ineffective treatments, wasting time and resources. For example, what eliminates an ant infestation might have no impact on termites. Misidentification also means missing out on crucial knowledge about the pest's lifecycle, behavior, and habitat, which is essential for adequate control. Moreover, using the wrong treatment can exacerbate the problem by allowing the pest population to grow unchecked, leading to a more severe infestation than was initially present. Improper Use Of Chemicals The dangers of improper chemical use in DIY pest control cannot be overstated. These chemicals can pose severe health risks, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and potentially long-term health consequences if not handled correctly. Over-application or incorrect usage can lead to environmental contamination, affecting non-target wildlife and potentially polluting water sources. The lack of professional training in handling these substances can lead to accidents that could have been avoided with expert help. Risk Of Incomplete Eradication DIY pest control methods often result in incomplete eradication of the pest population. Without thorough elimination, surviving pests continue to breed, resulting in the infestation's resurgence. Incomplete treatment fails to address the root cause of the problem, whether it be entry points, food sources, or breeding grounds, resulting in a recurring cycle of infestation and treatment. This prolongs the problem and can lead to increased pest resistance over time, making future eradication efforts more challenging. Potential Structural Damage Certain pests, such as termites and carpenter ants, pose a significant threat to the structural integrity of homes. DIY methods may fail to fully eradicate these pests, leading to unseen damage that can compromise the stability and safety of a building. This oversight can result in costly repairs and long-term structural issues, far exceeding the costs of professional pest control services. The hidden nature of this damage often means it goes unnoticed until it becomes a major, costly problem. Safety Hazards The safety risks associated with DIY pest control are diverse and significant. Handling pesticides and other chemicals without proper knowledge or protective gear can lead to accidental exposure, posing severe health risks. Additionally, specific pest control methods, such as foggers or heat treatments, carry risks of fire or explosions if not handled correctly. These hazards include the individual performing the treatment, other residents, and neighboring properties. Legal And Regulatory Issues Pesticide use is regulated by laws that DIY practitioners might unknowingly violate. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to legal troubles, including fines and penalties. Additionally, DIY pest control efforts can inadvertently affect neighboring properties, potentially leading to disputes or legal complications, significantly if harmful chemicals are misused or applied in a manner that violates local regulations. Ignorance Of Integrated Pest Management Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach to professional use that focuses on long-term prevention and minimal chemical usage. DIY methods often overlook this holistic approach, favoring immediate but short-term solutions. IPM considers the bigger ecological picture and long-term pest prevention, which DIY efforts often miss. This ignorance can lead to repeated infestations and an overreliance on chemical treatments rather than addressing underlying causes and sustainable solutions. Overreliance On Single Methods DIY pest control often relies on a single method or product, which may not be effective for all types of pests or infestations. Professional pest control, however, typically involves a combination of methods tailored to the specific pest and situation. This multifaceted approach ensures a higher success rate and more comprehensive control of the pest problem. DIY solutions, by contrast, might offer a temporary fix but fail to address the infestation in its entirety. The Stress And Time Factor Dealing with pests can be a stressful and time-consuming endeavor, especially when DIY methods fail to resolve the problem effectively. The emotional toll of facing a persistent pest problem and the effort and time required to apply DIY treatments can be overwhelming for homeowners. This stress is compounded by the uncertainty of the effectiveness of these treatments and the constant vigilance required to monitor their success. Potential For Worsening The Problem Incorrect or inadequate DIY pest control treatments can cause pests to scatter and spread, potentially worsening the infestation. In addition, pests can develop resistance to chemicals, particularly when misused or in sub-lethal doses. This resistance can make future control efforts more complex and less effective, leading to an ongoing battle against an increasingly resilient pest population. Conclusion While appealing for its perceived immediacy and cost savings, DIY pest control carries significant and multifaceted hidden dangers. From health risks to potential structural damage, legal issues, and the psychological burden of dealing with persistent pests, the complications associated with DIY methods can far outweigh their initial appeal. When considering pest control options, weigh these risks against professional pest control services' expertise, safety, and long-term effectiveness. In the realm of pest management, informed, cautious, and professional intervention is often the key to ensuring a safe, effective, and lasting solution. Read Also : What You Should Expect From A Pest Control Visit 5 Summer Garden Maintenance Tips And Tactics You Have To Know

Where Can I Buy CBD Oral Drops?

Whether you need a solution for pain management, a sleeping issue, anxiety, or general health maintenance, there are a host of cannabidiol products that can serve as a treatment option. One of the most potent options is CBD oral drops, which can be infused into food and beverages or be used on their own. The best palace to source the tincture from are online pharmacy stores. These stores are made up of large pharmaceutical chains, smaller local pharmacies, and other lawful organizations that sell medication online. Although physical pharmacies and specialty stores stock cannabis-based products, the inconvenience of visiting these stores and following ques and filling forms is daunting. This is the main reason why most patients prefer online shopping. Online medication orders require no paperwork and usually take only 5-10 minutes to complete. Besides supplying medication to consumers at low prices, these platforms are accessible 24-7 which provide patients with the flexibility of ordering medication at any time. These platforms also give patients a complete look at the benefits of using products such as CBD oral drops and their effects on the physical and mental being. Mistakes to Avoid When Buying CBD Oral Tincture: In the old days, when people felt even an inkling of an illness, they would instinctively visit the local apothecary for a solution. These stores stocked naturally derived/based treatments that could manipulate both the body and mind into a state of wellness. Since then, a lot has changed as now we look to chemical or synthetic based treatments to heals what ails us. However, the prevalence of side effects has been soaring into the nerve-wracking territory, which deters patients from getting treatment. The discovery of the cannabidiol compound in cannabis plants came as a welcomed relief at the time as patients now had a naturally-based treatment solution that is both effective and safe. The cannabidiol compound was originally processed or transformed into a handful of products, one of them being cannabidiol tinctures. Tinctures are liquid substances that contain varying amounts of the cannabidiol compound along with other naturally derived products. The CBD drops gained traction in the industry quite quickly, which made way for counterfeit products. Thus, experts advise that the following guidelines be followed when buying cannabidiol tinctures: Do not buy the cheapest tincture available Do your homework, expand your knowledge on essential aspects of a product before purchase Make sure the tincture is non-GMO & organically sourced Do not assume all CBD drops are the same as some can be sourced from the hemp plant while others are sourced from the marijuana plant. This results in differing compound content Ensure that the tincture you choose to purchase has certification or verifiable proof of its compound's origin Our CBD Oil Drops and Tinctures Different? Most consumers assume that cannabidiol oil and tinctures are the same product because of their visual appearance however, this assumption is misguided. These products cannot be used interchangeably and should be used following each product's dosage and usage practice. Unlike cannabidiol oil, tinctures contain lower levels of the active CBD compound, making them ideal for beginners. Tinctures have a longer shelf life–between 14 and 24 months and have a higher bioavailability than CBD oil drops. This means that more significant amounts of the CBD compound are absorbed by the body rather than eliminated. The cannabinoid compound is essentially extracted from the cannabis plant and processed into a liquid form. Various substances such as glycerine, cinnamon, and peppermint oil are added to the liquid-based to create a tincture. The CBD oral tincture is suspended under a 60-70% ratio of distilled alcohol. The alcohol content in the tincture serves as a preservative and increases the rate at which the product is absorbed by the system as well. Other ingredients included in tinctures are: Essential vitamins like B12, D, C, etc Essential oils like basil, lavender, etc Water Herbs Melatonin Sweeteners Origins of the CBD Oral Tincture: Cannabidiol compounds can be administered in many ways, as shown by the several forms it is available. The cannabidiol compounds therapeutic benefits can be extracted by dabbing, eating, drinking, or applying it topically to the skin. Among the most popular administration practices are all methods that involve cannabidiol tinctures. Unlike other cannabidiol products primarily made from cannabis leaves and stems, tinctures are produced from cannabis flowers. It is made by steeping flowers or cannabidiol isolates in high-proof grain alcohol, then leaving the brew on low heat for an extended period of time. This procedure allows the active compounds in the cannabis flower to infuse with the neutral alcohol spirit, much of which is boiled off thereafter. The result is a potent liquid tincture that can deliver the effects of the cannabinoid molecules without using smoking or other forms of combustion as a delivery method. Tincture Dosing: When it comes to cannabidiol products, most consumers discard dosing guidelines due to the compound's natural origins. Although using the cannabidiol products acutely or chronically is relatively safe, adverse effects are still a possibility. These adverse effects are commonly induced by non-adherence to dosage or usage instructions. Cannabidiol-infused products such as tinctures should be used according to dosage guidelines as the agent is concentrated. Tinctures were designed to be taken in small doses thus, each bottle comes with a built-in dropper. This administration tool helps users take small, carefully measured doses. Since tincture doses are small, they can be administered in a variety of ways. The most popular being food or beverage incorporation. No matter which administration method you choose, the standard recommended starting dose is 1-2 drops a maximum of 3 times a day. Once ingested, the tincture is absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream, which means it produces effects pretty fast. According to experts, patients will experience effects just 15 minutes after consumption however some users may feel effects at a later stage, up to 45 minutes later. The delayed effects are often due to several factors such as body weight, age, underlying conditions, medication currently being used, and more. Read Also: CBD: The understanding of its benefits Are CBD Lotions Good For Your Skin? 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Navigating Depression Treatment In Brooklyn: Your Options

Understanding Depression: A Prelude to Treatment