If you or someone you care about struggle with depression, it’s essential to know that treatment options are available to help you get better. If you’re in Louisiana and asking, “How can I find depression treatment near me?” look no further than Springfield Wellness Center. We offer treatment for depression and specialize in helping people achieve their treatment goals. Call 844.334.4727 to learn more about treatment goals for depression and to get started on improving your mental health today.
What Is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling down or sad for a few days. It’s a severe mental health disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can also lead to various physical and emotional problems and decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home.
Causes of Depression
No single cause of depression exists, but certain risk factors can make someone more susceptible to developing the condition. These include family history, brain structure and function, significant life changes or traumas, medical conditions, and substance abuse. Some people may be more vulnerable to depression due to their genes or biology, but anyone can develop the condition if they experience certain life events or stressors.
Types of Depressive Disorders
There are several types of depressive disorders, including:
- Bipolar disorder
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) or clinical depression
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) or dysthymia
- Postpartum depression
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Each type has its own symptoms and behaviors, but they all share one commonality: they cause significant impairment in day-to-day functioning. Depression can happen at any age, but it often begins in the teens or early 20s. Women are also more likely than men to experience depression. Some people experience depression for a short period, while others have it for much longer.
Depression Treatment
Depression treatment usually consists of both medication and psychotherapy. Doctors may sometimes recommend other treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). The type of treatment that’s right for you will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your preferences.
5 Treatment Goals for Depression
1. Reducing Symptoms
The first goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms of depression so that you can start to feel better. This may involve taking medication and attending therapy sessions. Typical therapeutic approaches used in depression treatment include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
- Problem-solving therapy
In most cases, the approach will use psychotherapy techniques to help you identify and change negative thinking patterns. This can help to improve your mood and reduce the symptoms of depression.
2. Improving Functioning
The second goal is to help you start functioning better in your day-to-day life. This may involve going back to work or school, spending time with friends and family, and participating in activities you enjoy.
3. Coping with Triggers
The third goal is to help you learn how to cope with triggers that can cause your depression symptoms to worsen. Triggers can be things like stressful life events, relationship problems, or financial difficulties.
4. Preventing Relapse
The fourth goal is to help you prevent a relapse of your depression symptoms. This may involve taking medication long-term, attending therapy sessions regularly, and making lifestyle changes.
5. Improving Quality of Life
The fifth and final goal is to improve your overall quality of life. This may involve setting goals for yourself, such as exercising more, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. It may also include taking steps to reduce stress in your life.
Find Depression Treatment in Louisiana at Springfield Wellness Center
If you’re struggling with depression, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. You don’t have to work to achieve the abovementioned treatment goals for depression alone. Contact Springfield Wellness Center today at 844.334.4727 to learn more about our depression treatment options and to schedule an appointment.