The Hidden Medical Conditions That Could Be Causing Your Depression – What Your Doctor Might Be Missing Are you feeling persistently sad, tired, or hopeless, but antidepressants aren’t helping as much as you’d hoped? You’re not alone. Many people struggle with depression that doesn’t respond fully to standard treatments because an underlying medical condition is the root cause. In this comprehensive guide, board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Mark J. Agresti, MD , explores the surprising physical illnesses and health issues that can trigger or mimic major depressive disorder . Identifying and treating these hidden causes often leads to dramatic improvement in mood and energy. ## Why Some Depression Has a Physical Root Cause Depression isn’t always just in your head. Numerous medical conditions can disrupt brain chemistry, hormones, inflammation pathways, or energy metabolism – leading to symptoms identical to clinical depression. Research shows that up to 20-30% of treatment-resistant depression cases may stem from an undiagnosed physical illness. At his Palm Beach practice, Dr. Mark Agresti specializes in uncovering these connections through thorough evaluation, advanced testing, and integrative treatment approaches. ## Common Medical Conditions Linked to Depression Endocrine & Hormonal Disorders – Hypothyroidism – Slows metabolism and mood; affects millions unknowingly. – Diabetes (Type 1 & 2) – Blood sugar swings trigger mood instability. – Menopause/Postpartum Changes – Estrogen fluctuations cause persistent low mood. Nutritional Deficiencies – Vitamin D Deficiency – Vitamin B12 Deficiency – Iron Deficiency Anemia Cardiovascular Issues – Heart Disease & Hypertension – Post-Stroke Depression Autoimmune & Inflammatory Diseases – Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – Rheumatoid Arthritis – Lupus & Inflammatory Bowel Disease Chronic Pain & Fatigue Syndromes – Fibromyalgia – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – Chronic Pain Conditions Other Key Triggers – Sleep Apnea – Chronic Infections (e.g., Lyme disease) – Medication side effects Treating the underlying condition – whether through hormone replacement, nutritional correction, or specialized care – frequently resolves depressive symptoms without relying solely on antidepressants. ## Get Expert Help in Palm Beach, Florida If you’re in West Palm Beach , Palm Beach , or anywhere in Florida , Dr. Mark J. Agresti, MD offers personalized psychiatric care and telehealth appointments. With over 26 years of experience, Dr. Agresti takes a holistic approach to uncover hidden causes of depression , anxiety , ADHD , and more. Schedule a confidential consultation today: Call (561) 444-7044 or visit drmarkagresti.com Early evaluation can change everything. #DepressionTreatment #HiddenCausesOfDepression #MedicalCausesOfDepression #ThyroidAndDepression #VitaminDeficiencyDepression #WestPalmBeachPsychiatrist #PalmBeachMentalHealth #FloridaTelehealthPsychiatry #TreatmentResistantDepression #IntegrativePsychiatry