Despite the known efficacy of psychotherapy for depression, one outmoded treatment model -12-step recovery programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – remains entrenched in popular culture. While acknowledging the efficacy of these types of treatments for alleviating symptoms, many individuals remain reluctant to undergo therapy due to its association with other addiction-related therapies such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Moderation Management/SMART Recovery.
Unbeknownst to many, there exists a potent alternative to both 12-step programs and antidepressants that can expedite your path toward wellness: psychotherapy!
1. Psychotherapy is NOT Costly
Psychotherapy is not only a viable option for the treatment of depression, it is also an affordable one. In fact, studies have revealed that rates typically range between $40-$150 per session – making this a cost-effective solution!
Many insurance companies and Medicare cover the costs associated with psychotherapy; however, there may be some out-of-pocket expenditure associated with this type of counseling. Typically though, those who utilize their health coverage will find that modules like individual sessions offered by outpatient facilities are completely free of charge!
2. You Can Get Care from Your Doctor
If you think about it, there is no circumstance in which an encounter with a physician could be more opportune. Even if you’re not currently feeling well and seeking treatment for depression, your physician may find it necessary to inquire further – yet they will still be able obtain all the information required (including any details pertaining to symptoms); this process allows them to craft an effective strategy and create an appropriate plan of action while ensuring patient comfort along the way!
This is why seeing a medical professional can provide significant relief during times of stress or even when sadness is lurking nearby. After hand-picking their team of practitioners, patients have access to a range of different approaches – from cognitive behavioral therapy to somatic interventions – that can help offer relief from their issues at hand.
3. It Doesn’t Take Long
If you’re like most people, psychotherapy is something that sounds daunting. The fact that it takes months or even years to complete can be quite offputting – especially when seeking help for depression.
However, as psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Beck points out in an article published on PsychologyToday, “therapy of any kind is brief.” This assertion not only underscores the importance of psychotherapy, but also serves as a viable alternative solution for those who may have reservations about facilitating such sessions.
4. You Might Feel Better Right Away
To be clear, psychotherapy for depression does not proffer a quick-fix cure. But if you’re searching for an alternative to antidepressants and other forms of treatment for mental illness – this may be just what you need!
As if these benefits weren’t sufficient motivation for seeking out therapy, let’s take a look at how well it can help alleviate your symptoms as quickly as possible: in just two sessions, nearly two-thirds of patients rated their state as ‘much better’ or ‘remarkably’ so while 70% experienced marked improvement; with ten sessions their success rate had jumped up to 90%.
5. It’s Generally Accepted by Doctors
Currently, psychotherapy is one of the most commonly-utilized forms of treatment for various mental ailments. In fact, it’s often prescribed as a primary method of care despite its efficacy in alleviating acute episodes of depression.
That said, there are still many misconceptions about psychotherapy and depression. For example, some individuals may erroneously believe that these can’t be effectively treated together since both conditions involve an interplay between psychological and physiological factors. On the contrary – evidence has demonstrated that cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is capable of providing relief for both! Furthermore, a majority of physicians agree on the fact that psychotherapy should be utilized prior to seeking any medications when treating patients with depression.
6. It Can Be Combined with Medications
If you are experiencing a depressive episode, therapy might be the optimal approach for managing your condition. However, medications may also come into play if your symptoms don’t respond adequately to psychotherapy alone.
Sometimes, it’s critical that both approaches be implemented in tandem; this is especially true if someone has a history of recurrent depressive episodes. For instance, many medications like SSRIs can help prevent recurrence or lessen severity of depression – but if you’re dealing with past issues related to their usage, it could make sense to revisit it with your doctor.
Moreover, medication might be required as a temporary expedient should your level of depressive symptoms become overwhelming. For example, antidepressants alleviate milder forms of depression by reducing levels of serotonin in the brain; however they cannot provide complete relief from symptoms like despair and anhedonia (when sadness doesn’t outweigh pleasure).
7. It’s Not Illegal to Refuse Treatment
Psychotherapy is a viable treatment option for depression, so long as it’s conducted by an appropriate professional.
Without the need to possess a degree, psychotherapy can be obtained simply by obtaining psychological help from a health care provider. Some states may even offer coverage for it; if not, it should be an accessible alternative!
If you find yourself struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to consult your physician about obtaining treatment. You’ll be glad you did!
8. You Probably Have Other Mental Illnesses That Go With Depression
Depression is just one of the many mental illnesses that coexist within an individual. However, it can manifest as a significant symptom that points to other issues within your lifestyle or psychological make-up.
If you’re suffering from depression, then it could also be indicative of a range of additional disorders such as anxiety, bipolar disorder and more.
By identifying these potential symptoms early on, it could help prevent problems from developing and allow people to take control over treating their conditions!
Conclusion
Despite the stigma surrounding psychotherapy, it is crucial to acknowledge that it can be an invaluable resource for those seeking assistance in overcoming mental anguish.
Psychotherapy is not a silver bullet for depression – nor is it a magic pill that renders one euphoric and content once again. Rather, it offers a means for examining issues, problems or circumstances that may have eluded you previously; so that together we can rectify them. To learn more about how I can help you regain control over your life, simply visit me online!