Depression affects 17 million American adults in a given year. Depression is a serious medical illness; it’s not something that you have made up in your head. It’s more than just feeling "down in the dumps" or "blue" for a few days. It’s feeling "down" and "low" and "hopeless" for weeks at a time. Unfortunately over two-thirds of people suffering from depression do not seek treatment. In addition, suicide is the ninth leading cause of death in the United States. However, for those that do seek treatment, 80% see significant improvement in their lives. Depression commonly occurs in conjunction with other mental and physical illnesses (including alcohol and substance abuse) which may make the symptoms worse.
Treatment
Although depression can come in several forms, it is generally responsive to two categories of treatment: psychotherapy and medication. These two treatments can be used alone or in combination. At Life Pathways, you will receive a thorough psychosocial evaluation during your initial visit. For most clients, the evaluation confirms that psychotherapy alone is the appropriate level of care. However, if you do not respond to psychotherapy alone, or if your evaluation indicates it, then you will be then you will be referred to your Primary Care Physician or to a Psychiatrist. There you will receive an additional evaluation and if you and your physician agree, medication will be prescribed. Your therapist can then coordinate the psychotherapy treatment with your physician's recommended medication(s).
There are two primary forms of psychotherapy that are used: Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (STDP) or Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). STDP focuses on the experience and expression of feelings and resolving inner motivations and is highly effective at treating depressive disorders. CBT uses techniques to challenge distorted or irrational thinking to alleviate depressive feelings. It is also well researched and highly effective.
With treatment, most people with depression can lead productive, fulfilling lives. If you think you have are suffering from depression, you should seek information and treatment right away. Click here for a free, confidential depression screening test.
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Jim Viccaro, M.S.,
M.F.T.
Life Pathways Therapy Solutions
Phone: E-mail: jim@life-pathways.com