Depression Therapy

Depression is one of those debilitating conditions which make it nearly impossible for the person to function normally. It can worsen if it exists in conjunction with drug or alcohol abuse. Fortunately, depression therapy exists to help individuals set themselves free from the trap of depression to regain control of their lives.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Usually, we all use the term depression to describe any low mood. However, clinical depression is much more severe. It is the extreme condition when an abnormally low mood is a regular occurrence, coupled with low self-esteem and a loss of interest even in trivial matters. The depressed individual does not eat well or take care of his health.

Therapists put great stress on the patient’s thought processes, emotions, and decision-making. Similarly, appropriate medicines are prescribed for overcoming the illness.

Treatment for Depression

Patients suffering from depression usually access treatment by first visiting a GP. Upon initial assessment, the GP will determine whether the patient is suffering from depression or a milder form of the illness. If the condition is severe, the GP will work with therapists to devise a treatment plan.

There are usually several strategies involved in the treatment of depression which the therapist will suggest. Some of them are as follows:

1. Wait and See: This one may sound like a misnomer initially, but this is often the first strategy devised by the therapist. It involves suggesting prescription antidepressants that will help elevate the patient’s mood, possibly enough to avoid further treatment.

2. Exercise: Moderate forms of exercise are also a very effective form of treatment for depression. Chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine release during physical activity. They help elevate the mood – aiding in reaching specific exercise goals to build self-esteem – giving patients something positive to look forward to.

3. Counseling: If the above two strategies don’t work for the patient, then they are recommended counseling sessions. These involve various tools like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and group counseling. By talking to the patient through their mental and emotional insecurities, it becomes easy for the therapist to break their cloud of depression.