Depression is a common medical illness that affects how you think, feel and act. It’s one of the most common mental disorders, affecting millions of people each year. Depression is also the leading cause of disability across the globe, which says a lot in itself. This means that more people are disabled by depression than any other physical or mental health issue.
As with other conditions, depression can range from mild to severe. Fortunately, all forms of depression are treatable. And because depression is so common, there are many ways to treat the condition. If one form of treatment isn’t working, there are others you can try. Most people benefit from a combination of treatments.
At CTRLCare Behavioral Health, we believe in educating our clients so that they can make the most informed decisions for their health and wellbeing. This post covers some of the most effective ways to treat depression. Many of these treatments are offered at our mental health treatment center in New Jersey.
Psychotherapy
Otherwise known as “talk therapy,” psychotherapy is often used in conjunction with medication, but it can also be used on its own. There are different types of psychotherapy. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy in New Jersey can help you recognize negative thinking and change your thoughts and behaviors.
Not all forms of psychotherapy include only the individual. Family therapy involves the family unit, while couples therapy addresses issues in close relationships. Group therapy is another type of talk therapy that brings people with similar challenges together in a supportive environment. Most people see significant improvements in 10 to 15 sessions.
Medication
Brain chemistry may contribute to depression and can impact treatment. For this reason, antidepressants might be prescribed to help change brain chemistry and make it easier to recover. Antidepressants are not uppers or downers. They are also not habit-forming. They are generally safe to take and can be used on a short- or long-term basis.
Antidepressants may offer some benefits in the first few weeks, but it generally takes several months to feel the full effects. If one antidepressant doesn’t work, your doctor may prescribe another. There are many different drugs available to manage the symptoms of depression.
Lifestyle Changes
There are also things you can do in your own life to improve depression symptoms. Taking care of yourself makes you more resilient and better able to cope with stressful situations. Here are some ways to do this:
- Exercise 30 minutes a day most days of the week
- Eat healthy, balanced meals
- Get enough sleep at night
- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga
- Take vitamins or supplements (talk to your doctor first)
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
Start Depression Treatment Today
If depression is keeping you from enjoying life to the fullest, don’t wait to seek help. CTRLCare Behavioral Health offers depression treatment in Princeton NJ. We have a full spectrum of care that includes intensive outpatient services, outpatient services, individual counseling and family therapy. Contact us today to learn more about our depression treatment services. A better life awaits!
