Depression - treatment approaches

Depression - treatment approaches

If you or a loved one is suffering from depression, you will look for ways to help you and your family. There isn't just one way, so make sure you get all the information you need to make the best choice for you.

General practitioner (family doctor)

The first step for many people with depression is to see their family doctor, a trusted family doctor. After you explain to your primary care doctor how you are feeling and what is going on in your life, he or she will most likely ask you a series of questions to determine whether your symptoms indicate depression or other health problems. As a result, he may suggest medication (antidepressants) or refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other therapist who deals with depression, whichever suits you best.

medication

Remember that taking medication is a truly personal decision and some people prefer to try without it. If you feel like your primary care doctor is biased and trying to persuade you into a treatment that isn't right for you, find someone who will give you a second opinion.

Medication treats the biological component of the disease. However, treatment of depression must be collaborative and include both psychological and biological components. Make sure you choose therapists who work together.

Psychological support

There are various forms of therapy that can be helpful in treating depression: psychodynamic psychotherapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), counseling and other alternative therapies such as Gestalt therapy, hypnotherapy, rebirthing, travel therapy, craniosacral therapy etc.

What is the right approach for me?

All of the above-mentioned forms of therapy have different approaches and not all of them are suitable for you. Make sure you ask questions and get a feel for what feels right for you. Talk to other people you know who have experienced what you are experiencing. Find out about the different approaches, either in books from the library or on the Internet.

Once you feel comfortable with your choice of approach, get some therapist recommendations and give it a try. Just like with a restaurant recommendation, you should check whether you like what they have to offer.

The therapeutic alliance with your therapist is of utmost importance for the success of therapy. As a consultant, I tell my clients that they need to feel like they want to work with me as much as I need to feel like I can help them. This is the foundation of any type of work, no matter what the approach.

Inspired by Nathalie Himmelrich