Mesa, Arizona’s Preferred Depression Disorder Hospital


Opening May 2024

Depression is a mental health disorder that is characterized by ongoing feelings of sadness, despair, and a loss of interest in once enjoyable activities. Symptoms of depression commonly include changes in sleep patterns or appetite, fatigue, difficulty focusing, and, in severe cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Dealing with symptoms of depression can be challenging, but there is help available. 

Located in Mesa, Arizona, Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital provides intensive services for adolescents ages 11-17 and adults age 18 and older who are suffering from depression. Depression is a treatable condition, and with the right level of support, you can learn to manage your symptoms and get back to living a happy, productive life.  

Signs & Symptoms of Depression

Depression is more than just feeling blue. When a person has depression, they experience disruptive symptoms, such as persistent sadness, guilt, and restlessness, that can make completing day-to-day tasks increasingly challenging.  

Other common signs and symptoms of depression include:  

  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies 
  • Tearfulness  
  • Social withdrawal 
  • Sleeping too much or too little 
  • Significant weight gain or loss due to drastic changes in appetite 
  • Chronic tiredness or low energy 
  • Trouble focusing or remembering details 
  • Impaired decision-making skills 
  • Feelings of worthlessness or emptiness 
  • Unexplained physical aches and pains 
  • Digestive problems 
  • Increased sensitivity to rejection 
  • Pessimism  
  • Substance use 
  • Thoughts of death or suicide 

It’s important to understand that the intensity and combination of depression symptoms can vary from person to person. Seeking the help of a qualified behavioral health professional is crucial for a proper diagnosis and effective treatment.  

What Causes Depression?

Depression is a complex condition that can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, culture, or socioeconomic status. Researchers believe that depression may develop as a result of several contributing environmental, biological, genetic, and psychological factors.  

Typical risk factors for depression include: 

  • Brain chemistry: Imbalances of certain neurotransmitters may play a role in the development of depression. 
  • Stressful or traumatic life events: Significant life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, illness, and job loss, can contribute to the onset of depression.  
  • Substance abuse: When it comes to depression, addiction can be both a cause and consequence. Using drugs or alcohol may increase a person’s risk for depression, and distressful symptoms of depression can cause people to turn to substance use to cope or self-medicate. 
  • Childhood trauma: Those who endure complex trauma during childhood may have difficulty processing emotions in a productive way, which can lead to symptoms of depression. 
  • Hormonal changes: Drastic changes in hormones, especially in pregnant or postpartum women, can impact overall mood and lead to symptoms of depression. 
  • Genetics: Having a family history of depression or other mental health concerns may put a person at greater risk for developing depression. 
  • Lack of social support: Social isolation or feelings of loneliness can be a contributing factor to the onset of depression. 
  • Chronic medical conditions: Certain health concerns and medications may be associated with the development of depression symptoms.  

At our premier depression treatment center, we take a holistic approach to care in addressing each patient’s mental, social, emotional, and physical needs. We understand that mental health concerns are complex, and we are committed to helping our patients identify the root cause of their struggles with depression so that they can begin to fully heal.  

Potential Effects of Depression

Untreated depression can take a toll on a person’s overall well-being. Similar to the signs and symptoms of depression, the effects of depression can be different for each person. Finding support early can help people who have depression learn to manage symptoms and avoid long-term consequences.  

Common negative effects of depression include:  

  • Withdrawal and isolation  
  • Low self-esteem  
  • Substance use and addiction  
  • Financial struggles  
  • Poor performance at work or in school  
  • Onset of other mental health concerns  
  • Worsening symptoms  
  • Physical health concerns, like chronic pain, a weakened immune system, and sleep disturbances 
  • Strained interpersonal relationships 
  • Suicidal thoughts or actions  

Depression Statistics

While depression is one of the most prevalent mental health concerns impacting society today, the perceived stigma about depression can often keep people who are suffering from asking for the help they need. It’s important to recognize that experiencing symptoms of depression is not a sign of weakness; depression is a serious mental health condition that requires professional care. 

Learning about the worldwide prevalence of depression can help you realize that you are not alone. The following statistics are provided by the World Health Organization: 

  • Women are more likely than men to suffer from depression.  
  • An estimated 280 million people in the world struggle with depression.  
  • Globally, more than 10% of pregnant and postpartum women experience symptoms of depression.  

If you are battling depression, don’t suffer in silence. By reaching out to our team today, you are taking a courageous step toward a brighter, happier future. 

Benefits of Depression Treatment

Battling depression can be an isolating experience. When you choose to receive inpatient care at our depression treatment center, you can discover that you are not alone in your struggles.  

In addition to working with an empathetic and understanding staff, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with peers who have had similar experiences. During daily group sessions, you can build valuable bonds with people who understand what you’re going through. These sessions provide a safe forum for you to process difficult feelings and gain perspective from the experiences of others. 

Along with group therapy, your inpatient depression treatment plan may include the following: 

  • Detox services 
  • Basic medical care 
  • Medication management services  
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy  
  • Dialectical behavior therapy 
  • 12-Step programming 

At Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital, we tailor the therapies and services included in your treatment plan to your unique needs. We understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to depression treatment, and we are committed to delivering care that is completely customized so that our patients can receive the comprehensive support they need. 

By receiving individualized inpatient care at our depression treatment center, you can experience numerous benefits, including: 

  • Enhanced social well-being 
  • Relief from symptoms 
  • Improved self-esteem and resiliency 
  • Better physical health 
  • Improved coping strategies 

Why Choose Our Mesa, Arizona, Depression Treatment Center

Finding a reputable depression treatment center is essential to the healing process. At Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital, we offer a seamless care experience, from intake to discharge, that can help you get on a path to better health. Through personalized programming, we can address your unique needs and provide you with evidence-based interventions that promote wellness.  

Key features of our inpatient depression treatment program include: 

  • Crisis support: In the inpatient program, we provide acute care to help our patients stabilize. We can offer the focused support you need to improve your overall well-being and return home or step down to a less restrictive level of care.  
  • 24/7 monitoring: You’ll receive round-the-clock care from a team of experts who have a shared goal of helping you improve your health.  
  • Detailed assessments: Before you are admitted, you will complete an in-depth evaluation that will give us a chance to gather details about your medical and mental health history. By getting to know you, we can create a treatment plan that takes your strengths, treatment goals, and desired outcomes into account. 
  • A supportive therapeutic environment: At our depression treatment place, you’ll receive encouragement from caring behavioral health and medical professionals. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop camaraderie with other patients who understand the challenges of living with mental health concerns.  
  • A comfortable setting: We want you to feel at ease during your stay at our depression treatment center. You’ll have access to an outdoor courtyard for relaxation and personal reflection as well as spacious treatment areas that feature natural light throughout.  

Though inpatient treatment is designed to be a short-term experience, we want to help you continue achieving success long after your stay at our facility. We will provide you with a thorough aftercare plan at the end of the program to help you build on the progress you’ve made with our team. Discharge plans may include referrals for follow-up therapy sessions, support groups, or lower levels of care, such as outpatient treatment.  

If depression is interfering with your ability to work, attend school, or maintain healthy relationships with loved ones, don’t put off asking for help. In our inpatient depression treatment program, you can get the support you need to manage symptoms of depression and get back to living the fulfilling life you deserve. 

This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital.