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Depression Treatment

About Depression Treatments
Receiving depression treatment in Texas is now easier with the use of mental health services over the internet. Depression treatment consists of understanding your depression and then identifying the most appropriate treatment technique to decrease your symptoms. Traditional therapies that were previously used in an office setting, can now be used over the internet with the same success rate. When engaging via messaging, or attending a video or phone therapy session with Mindset Therapy, you will connect via a secure link while using your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Video sessions are face-to-face over video conferencing which allows for a personalized experience with your therapist in a location most convenient for you. By engaging via messaging or attending your video appointment over the internet, you remove obstacles such as travel time to the appointment, lack of quality care in your community, and the perceived stigma of being seen at the therapist’s office. Sessions over the internet also give you the most flexibility in attending your appointment. When treating depression over the internet, you choose the time, location, and the privacy most comfortable for you.

Depression Symptoms

Depressive disorders among Americans are common; however, many people do not recognize that what they are experiencing could be depression. Depression presents itself in a variety of ways, and it is possible to be diagnosed with a depressive disorder without experiencing depressed mood. To be diagnosed with a Major Depressive Disorder, you must be experiencing either depressed mood and/or loss of interest in pleasurable activities over a 2-week period. In addition to the depressed mood and/or loss of interest in pleasurable activities, other symptoms that would suggest a depressive disorder includes: weight loss or weight gain, increase or decrease in appetite, slowing down of thoughts or movements noticeable by others, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, feelings of guilt and/or worthlessness, and/or suicidal thoughts. A depressive state can last the minimum 2 weeks, or many years. In addition to the Major Depressive Disorder, there is also another form of depression which has symptoms that must be present for more days than not, over a 2-year period. This form of depression is Persistent Depressive Disorder and the symptoms appear very similar to a Major Depressive Disorder but can also include low self-esteem. Assessment by a qualified professional is required to differentiate what type of depression you are experiencing. However, it is important to understand the symptoms to be on the lookout for so you can discuss it with your therapist.

How to Help Improve Your Depression
Depression is common, and it is treatable. The best depression treatment consists of a treatment plan that is developed between you and your therapist, with your specific symptoms and expectations addressed. One common form of treatment for depression is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT. CBT is based on research which demonstrates how we think (cognitions) impacts how we feel and then behave. For example, if you think (cognition) that no one likes you and wants to spend time with you, you will become depressed (mood), and will isolate (behavior). The more you isolate the more you confirm your belief that no one likes you because you are not around people to change that thought, and people stop asking you to hang out because you always decline. As a result, your depression becomes stronger and you are stuck in a downward spiral of worsening mood. Other effective means of improving your depression includes increasing the activities you enjoy doing, and finding new things that bring your joy and a sense of mastery. CBT is an effective form of treatment because it helps you recognize the thoughts that have become unhelpful and assists you in becoming more active to tackle the unhelpful thoughts and moods, while getting you more active in your life.

Depression Treatment Process
When making changes on your own is not enough to reduce your depression, seeking help from a professional can help you become successful. The depression treatment process includes meeting with your therapist to learn more about your depression and how it has effected your life. Your therapist will ask you what symptoms you are recognizing and how long they have been present. Prior to your appointment with your therapist, it might be helpful to ask your friends and family what they have noticed in case you were not aware of all your symptoms. However, if you do not feel comfortable asking others then you can work with your therapist on identifying the symptoms. Your therapist will also want to know what brought you to treatment. People come to treatment for different reasons and understanding your reason for starting treatment will be helpful in developing your treatment plan. After the information is gathered, you and your therapist will work together to develop a treatment plan. The treatment plan is specific to you and will be developed in collaboration with your therapist. Your therapist is the expert on the diagnosis and treatments, but you are the expert on the symptoms and how they affect your life. By working together, you and your therapist will have a plan in place to target your depressive symptoms so that you can see improvements. Based on your symptoms and the goals in your treatment plan, you and your therapist will discuss the most appropriate treatment options.

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