Greetings! Dr. Samantha Brustad here, licensed psychologist and owner of Teletherapy-Solutions.com. Depression is incredibly common and can range from mild symptoms to debilitating pain and suffering. The National Institute of Health estimated 16 million American adults have had at least one major depressive episode in the past year. Depression can impact how you think, feel, interact with people, and handle daily life. It is typically accompanied by feelings of sadness and a loss of interest or pleasure in things you once enjoyed.
The good news is, depression is highly treatable. In this article I will provide an overview of depression and describe types of depression therapy, however the underlying message is to seek professional support with a therapist you trust. Finding the right counselor can help you feel immediate relief and overcome a depressive episode.
Types of Depression
There are many types of depression as defined by the DSM-5 but overall, it is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of depressed mood or sadness and the often profound loss of interest in things that usually bring you pleasure. Types of depression include, but are not limited to:
- Major Depressive Disorder – Symptoms present for more than 2 weeks.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder – Depression present for most days during a two-year period.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder – Major Depressive Disorder with a seasonal pattern.
- Postpartum Depression- Depression with peripartum onset.
- Bipolar Disorder- Cycle between depressive and manic episodes.
Types of Depression Therapy
The length and severity of your symptoms of depression will determine the type of depression therapy and length of treatment. Overall, depression therapy will help you understand and work through the issues that are impacting your life in negative ways. A therapist’s role is to listen, provide feedback, and work with you to develop coping strategies to manage your symptoms.
Depression therapy is often accompanied by medications called antidepressants. Research has shown that a combination of therapy and medications is the most effective treatment for depression.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most commonly used approaches to combat depression because it has been shown to be highly effective in a short length of time. It helps relief symptoms, fast! CBT operates under the theory that thoughts, behaviors and emotions are interdependent. It helps you to identify and change the negative thinking that often leads to destructive behaviors and sad emotions. It focuses on the present, is goal-oriented and requires clients to take an active role in their depression therapy.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT is another method used in depression therapy. It focuses on identifying and repairing the interpersonal conflict and poor social support that lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. IPT teaches people to communicate assertively, advocate for their wants and needs, and develop deeper bonds with those you care about.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT modified form of cognitive behavioral therapy that works towards acceptance and compassion in order to validate difficult emotions and improve one’s ability to withstand uncomfortable feelings. DBT teaches people skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Through the development of these skills, people learn to manage difficult emotions, advocate for themselves and build self-compassion.
Living with depression can feel overwhelming at times. You are not alone. We are here to help!
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