How to Get Treatment for Depression

Aug 28, 2024 | Depression, Therapy

Suffering from depression is an all-too-common experience that affects more than 16% of the population at any one time. Depression comes with a laundry list of challenges, including fatigue, isolation, lethargy, and even suicidal ideation. The good news is that depression is highly treatable, and there are a range of effective treatments available for those affected. In this blog, we explore what treatment options are available and offer guidance on how to get treatment for depression.

What Is Depression?

Before we share some of the many treatment options, it’s helpful to understand depression on a deeper level. Depression is not a sign of weakness or something that can be “snapped out of.” It’s a medical condition that affects the brain and body, either short-term or long-term. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects more than 280 million people worldwide, making it a leading cause of disability globally.

Common symptoms of depression include:

Persistent sadness or feeling of emptiness
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Changes in appetite and weight
Sleep disturbances
Fatigue and loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek professional help immediately.

Hotlines & Resources

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 (TALK), suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741, crisistextline.org.
SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (HELP), samhsa.gov

Getting the Right Diagnosis

The first step in getting treatment for depression is obtaining an accurate diagnosis. This is crucial because depression can often co-occur with other mental health conditions like anxiety, bipolar disorder, or substance abuse. A correct diagnosis ensures that all underlying issues are identified and addressed, leading to a more effective treatment plan. A licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can provide a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis.

1. Reach out to a professional

Start by finding a mental health provider who specializes in mood disorders. You can ask your primary care physician for recommendations, as they often have a network of trusted specialists.

Additionally, searching online directories such as Psychology Today, Zocdoc, or the American Psychological Association can help you find qualified professionals in your area. Look for providers with experience in treating depression and co-occurring disorders, as their expertise will be invaluable.

2. Schedule an evaluation

Contact the mental health professional and schedule an evaluation appointment. During this initial assessment, the therapist will ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, and personal circumstances to make an accurate diagnosis. This evaluation may include standardized questionnaires or assessments designed to measure the severity and nature of your depressive symptoms.

Be prepared to discuss any family history of mental health issues, as this information can provide important context for your diagnosis.

3. Be honest

Although it may be scary, being honest is critical. Providing complete and truthful information will help the mental health professional determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you. This includes discussing the duration and intensity of your symptoms, any previous mental health diagnoses, and how depression affects your daily life. Mention any substance use or other behaviors that might impact your mental health, as these factors are crucial for a comprehensive diagnosis.

Transparency about your mental health struggles enables the professional to tailor a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your condition, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Treatment Options

Once you receive a diagnosis of depression, several treatment options are available. The most effective approach often involves a combination of therapies tailored to your needs. Here are some standard treatment options for depression:

1. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy):

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to their depression. This type of therapy is evidence-based and focuses on practical strategies to improve mental health.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): IPT focuses on improving communication and interpersonal relationships, which can alleviate depressive symptoms. It is particularly effective for individuals whose depression is related to relationship issues.
Psychodynamic Therapy: This type of therapy explores unconscious patterns of behavior and their impact on mood and functioning. It aims to increase self-awareness and understanding of how past experiences influence present behavior.

2. Medication:

Antidepressants: Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can help alleviate depression symptoms by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. These medications are often prescribed for moderate to severe depression.
Mood Stabilizers: These medications may be prescribed for individuals with bipolar disorder or those who experience mood swings alongside depression. They help to stabilize mood and prevent extreme highs and lows.

3. Lifestyle Changes:

Consistent Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can help alleviate depressive symptoms. Even moderate exercise, such as walking or yoga, can benefit significantly.
Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can support mental health. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, and folate, found in leafy greens, have been shown to improve mood.
Sleep: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a sleep-conducive environment can improve sleep quality and reduce depressive symptoms. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and avoid screens before bedtime.

4. Support Groups

Joining a support group or attending therapy groups can provide a sense of community and shared understanding, reducing feelings of isolation. Support groups offer a platform to share experiences and receive encouragement from others facing similar challenges.

5. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

ECT is a treatment option for severe depression that does not respond to other treatments. It involves delivering controlled electrical currents to the brain to induce a brief seizure, which can alleviate symptoms. ECT is often used when other treatments have been ineffective.

6. Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine, administered under medical supervision, has shown promising results in treating treatment-resistant depression. It works rapidly to relieve symptoms and is typically used when traditional medications have failed.

7. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is used when other treatments have not been effective. TMS is non-invasive and can improve symptoms by targeting specific brain areas of mood regulation.

Choosing the proper treatment or combination of treatments depends on individual factors, including the severity of depression, personal preferences, and any co-occurring mental health conditions.

Finding the Right Mental Health Professional

Finding the right mental health professional for you is essential when it comes to effective depression treatment. Here are some tips to help you make the best possible decision:

Check their qualifications: Ensure that the therapist or psychiatrist is licensed and has experience in treating depression. Look for credentials such as board certification and specialization in mood disorders.
Ask for recommendations: Seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as your primary care physician, friends, or family members who have had positive experiences with mental health professionals.
Do your research: Utilize online directories and reviews to learn more about potential providers, their areas of expertise, and patient feedback. Websites like Psychology Today and Healthgrades can provide valuable information.
Consider different therapy styles: Different therapists may use various therapeutic approaches. Research these approaches and consider which one resonates with you. It may be helpful to read about different types of therapy to understand what each entails.
Schedule the consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with a therapist to gauge their personality, communication style, and whether you feel comfortable working with them. A good therapeutic relationship is key to successful treatment.
Think about insurance coverage: Verify whether the mental health professional accepts your insurance, as this can significantly affect the cost of treatment. Contact your insurance provider to understand your mental health benefits.

The Importance of Taking Care of Yourself

As much as we may enjoy leaning on others, no one is entirely as equipped to take care of us as ourselves. Here are some self-care practices to complement your treatment plan:

Follow a routine: A daily routine can provide structure and stability, often lacking during depressive episodes. Establishing regular times for waking up, meals, and activities can help create a sense of normalcy.
Reach out for support: Like your friends and family, lean on your support network and communicate your needs. Tell them how they can help, and be open about your struggles.
Avoid substances: Alcohol and drug use exacerbate depression symptoms, so it’s essential to avoid or limit their use. These substances can interfere with medications and therapy.
Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that depression is not your fault, no matter what your mind may try telling you—practice self-compassion by engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Depression is a scary but treatable condition, and with the proper support and resources, you can come out on the other side unscathed. Being proactive and acting as soon as you catch yourself slipping into depressive behavioral patterns is the best way to begin feeling better quickly. Don’t let yourself suffer when it isn’t necessary – reach out and find the treatment method that is best for you.

New Dimensions Day Treatment Centers Can Help

If you or a loved one is dealing with depression, New Dimensions can help. New Dimensions Day Treatment Centers offer Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient treatment programs for adolescents and adults. These programs provide individualized care with group psychotherapy, medication management, education, and support.

New Dimensions Day Treatment Centers are conveniently located in Clear Lake, The Woodlands, and Katy. Contact us today by phone at 800.685.9796 or learn more about our programs at our website, www.nddtreatment.com.

References

Bains N, Abdijadid S. Major Depressive Disorder. [Updated 2023 Apr 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/

Bains N, Abdijadid S. Major Depressive Disorder. [Updated 2023 Apr 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078

World Health Organization. (2020). Depression. Retrieved July 26, 2024, from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression

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