Therapy for Depression

Understanding depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch. It’s a serious mental health condition that requires understanding and medical care. Unfortunately, there’s a societal stigma attached to depression, which can lead to misunderstandings and lack of support for individuals facing this challenge. Depression can affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. Each person’s experience with depression is unique, but with the right therapeutic support, overcoming depression is achievable. Through fostering a better understanding and reducing stigma, we can create a more supportive environment for those working through depression.

On a neurocognitive level, depression is associated with altered brain function and structure. Research has shown that depression can lead to changes in the way certain neural circuits function within the brain, particularly those circuits involved in mood regulation, stress response, and thinking processes. Understanding the neurocognitive aspects of depression can provide a more comprehensive view of this complex condition, aiding in the development of personalized treatment plans to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Symptoms of depression

Depression can manifest in various ways, both physically and emotionally. You might feel persistently sad, anxious, or empty, and lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. Physical symptoms could include fatigue, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and others. There may also be feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness, and at times, thoughts of death or suicide. These symptoms can be overwhelming, but reaching out for support is a brave and crucial step towards finding relief.

Our approach to therapy for depression

Embarking on a therapeutic journey to address depression is a pivotal step towards reclaiming one’s sense of well-being. At Holding Hope, we champion a collaborative and evidence-based approach to therapy for depression. Our method is rooted in drawing upon scientifically-backed modalities that have been shown to effectively mitigate the symptoms of depression.

We value the unique narrative each individual brings, and we aim to work in partnership with you to develop a personalized therapeutic plan. Our approach transcends a one-size-fits-all methodology. Instead, we tailor our evidence-based strategies to align with your unique life circumstances, fostering a supportive environment that encourages self-exploration, resilience-building, and the cultivation of a more joyful and fulfilling life.

For more information about the role of psychotherapy for the treatment of depression, we encourage you to browse the National Institutes of Health psychotherapy page, where you’ll find clear, expert-reviewed information on how psychotherapy can help manage symptoms, identify underlying causes, and build coping skills to overcome depression.

Recent articles we’ve written about depression

Dive deeper into understanding depression through our collection of articles. Our therapists share strategies and reflections to provide a better understanding of depression and the path towards managing it.