If you are feeling symptoms of depression it can be difficult to determine what steps to take next. Do you see your primary care physician, find a psychiatrist, or seek help from a psychologist or therapist? Another question that is often asked is “What is more effective: taking medications such as antidepressants or doing psychotherapy?” Here are some guidelines to help guide you through an already difficult situation.

Recognizing and addressing symptoms of depression is a crucial turning point towards healing and well-being. While it’s natural to feel uncertain about the next steps, remember that there are various options available to support you on this path to recovery.

Taking the first step towards seeking professional help can make a significant difference. You have multiple avenues to explore, such as visiting your primary care physician, consulting with a psychiatrist, or seeking guidance from a psychologist or therapist. These experts have the knowledge and experience to understand and treat depression, providing you with personalized support based on your unique needs and circumstances.

Psychotherapy has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in treating depression. Research shows that around 66% of adults no longer met the criteria for clinical depression after engaging in psychotherapy. Therapists can employ different therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), or Psychodynamic Therapy, tailoring the approach to what suits you best. Each modality offers a unique perspective and tools to help you navigate through challenges, promoting positive changes in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Furthermore, psychotherapy can address underlying causes of depression, such as past trauma. Trauma-focused therapies, like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), can help you reprocess difficult experiences, reducing their negative impact and supporting your healing process.

While psychotherapy is generally as effective or even more effective than medications in treating depression, a combination of psychotropic medications and psychotherapy can potentially yield the best results. Medications can help alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety more quickly, offering you an opportunity to experience symptom relief while simultaneously undergoing psychotherapy. A study conducted by Harvard Health found that adding psychotherapy to drug treatment was more helpful than medication alone in treating major depression. The Mayo Clinic also suggests that medication and psychotherapy are effective for most people with depression.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you don’t have to face depression alone. There are caring professionals ready to provide guidance, understanding, and support on your journey to recovery. Taking the first step towards seeking help demonstrates your commitment to prioritizing your mental health and taking control of your well-being. With the right support and treatment, there is hope for a brighter and more fulfilling future ahead.

For more information visit:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356013

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(20)30036-5/fulltext

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/medication-or-therapy-for-depression-or-both