Depression is a serious disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, in both children and adults. There is no reason to be embarrassed or ashamed for feeling down at any time of the day or night. Many different types of treatments are available, ranging from natural remedies like herbal treatments to powerful drugs like Prozac. There is also talk therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, family therapy, alternative treatments like massage therapy and acupuncture, and lifestyle therapy. The following paragraphs summarize some of the more common forms of depression therapy.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is often regarded as the most effective form of depression therapy, although it does take time to work. The patient will be asked a series of questions and then shown what might be causing their problems, such as an abusive relationship, bad grades, or a stressful job. The therapist then tries to help the client change these thoughts and feelings, replacing them with more positive ones. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective if the client is motivated to stick with the treatment; otherwise, the therapist may have difficulty getting the client to keep going.
Psychodynamic depression therapy deals with feelings, thoughts, and behaviors related to the self and others. Once a diagnosis has been made, a description of the patient’s feelings and behaviors is given. The therapist then uses these descriptions to help treat the patient’s feelings and behaviors. The goal is to find the cause of the problem, which may be caused by a faulty diet or other medical issues. Once the cause is identified, steps to improving the patient’s health and quality of life can begin.
A third type of depression therapy is called chemical or biochemical. This form of therapy is sometimes used in conjunction with cognitive behavior therapy. Chemical treatments, which include antidepressants and mood stabilizers, are prescribed to treat some of the symptoms of depression. When these medications are used on their own, they can help to reduce symptoms, but not address the root cause of the problem. Sometimes other medications are needed to combat the side effects of the drugs.
A mental health professional such as a psychologist, licensed therapist, or nurse will develop a treatment plan for your case. Treatment plans can range from dietary changes to counseling. Dietary changes can include reducing sugar, saturated fat, and caffeine, while increasing the amount of foods that are rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, niacin, phosphorus, and magnesium. Counseling can include learning new ways to cope with stress, practical problems, and difficulties at work or at home. Cognitive behavioral therapy can teach the patient new thinking skills that can prevent depression episodes.
If medications are needed, psychotherapy can include sessions dealing with negative thoughts, worries, and negative moods. A therapist will help you understand how your thoughts create your mood and will help you change your thinking patterns. Together you and your therapist can determine how to react when you are depressed. Cognitive behavioral psychotherapy helps the patient identify his or her negative patterns and how they affect his or her mood and behavior. Once you have identified your negative thoughts, you can change them and live a more balanced life.
Your mental health professional will probably recommend hospitalization at one of the many outpatient centers across the country. Hospitalization is often effective in treating depression symptoms. If you have mild depression symptoms, hospitalization may not be the best course of action. A mental health professional should discuss the options with you and your doctor and choose hospitalization according to your medical history and the severity of your depression symptoms. Some people may need hospitalization but do not require it for prolonged periods of time.
Your therapist will help you develop an individualized treatment plan to treat your symptoms and keep you feeling happy and healthy. You will work with your therapist to control your feelings and behaviors. Your therapist can also help you learn to talk about your feelings and fears with people outside of the therapy room. Your therapist will teach you how to respond to the negative thoughts that trigger your depression symptoms.