PSYCHOTHERAPY FOR DEPRESSION
Psychotherapy for depression generally involves examining your thoughts and behaviours, identifying stresses that contribute to depression, gaining insights and developing a greater understanding of yourself in order to bring about positive change at a meaningful level. People who actively participate in therapy recover more quickly and have fewer relapses. Therapy is not a "quick fix." It takes longer to begin to work than antidepressants, but there is evidence that suggests that its effects last longer.
As your therapist we will work together to help you to:
- Understand, work through and explore your beliefs, emotions, and ways of thinking that may be triggering the depression
- Understand and identify any life problems or events—like a major illness, a death in the family, a loss of a job or a divorce—that contribute to your depression and help you to understand which aspects of those problems you may be able to solve or improve
- Regain a sense of control and pleasure in life
- Learn coping techniques and problem-solving skills
WHEN IS PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT NEEDED?
If you or someone you know is depressed and exhibits any of the following signs, it is extremely important to seek the assistance of a medical or mental health professional:
1. Thoughts about death or suicide.
2. Symptoms of depression continue for a long time.When this occurs, you may need professional help. Acute responses to events are normal, but they should not last beyond a reasonable time.
3. Your ability to function is impaired by your depression. Seek help before your life situation deteriorates to a serious level.
4. You have become severely isolated. An isolated person has no one with whom to reality test. Seek someone out to share your thoughts and feelings with.
5. Depressive symptoms have become severe.