Depression Treatment Program

Depression should not be confused with the sadness that everyone feels following certain events or experiences, such as the loss of a loved one or the end of a relationship. These are situations that are incredibly difficult to move on from and recover from. However, it eventually becomes easier to deal with those losses.

The grieving process is unique to each and every individual and is influenced by several factors. Soon you may find a new job or enter another relationship after healing from the previous one. But when that sadness does not subside or go away, you are now in a depressed state, and that could have disastrous consequences for your mental and physical health.

On the surface, depression and grief share many similarities. Typically, both involve a withdrawal from active social life and responsibility. But in grief, there are still moments of happiness that are light and positive to counteract the dark periods. With depression, that happiness goes away entirely for at least two weeks and is replaced by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem.

While grieving, you also still maintain your sense of self and identity. Depression, on the other hand, has the potential to wipe away your self-esteem, resulting in feelings of total and complete worthlessness.

Depression can affect any and everyone. Even people who may seem entirely put together on the surface could be hiding their depression deep down. However, with the right treatment and support, anyone can overcome depression. The first step is to seek mental health treatment.

Dual diagnosis occurs when an individual struggles with both a substance use disorder, such as drug or alcohol addiction, and a mental health disorder simultaneously. Often, addiction can lead to depression when it reaches the point of altering brain chemistry and affecting one’s relationships. Conversely, depression can contribute to addiction, as individuals may attempt to self-medicate instead of seeking proper treatment.

Dual diagnosis is a significant issue in the United States. In 2018, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that approximately 9.2 million adults experienced both mental illness and substance use disorder that year. Unfortunately, only 34.5% sought treatment for their mental health, while just 3.9% received treatment for their addiction. A mere 9.1% addressed both conditions simultaneously.

While these statistics may seem discouraging, it is essential to recognize that there are effective treatments available for mental health disorders and addiction individually, as well as comprehensive approaches to addressing both concerns concurrently.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, it is important to start the journey to mental health treatment. Depression is not incurable; in fact, many people have successfully recovered from it. Common treatments for depression include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT stands out as one of the most effective ways to address depression. It empowers individuals to understand the reasons behind their emotions, recognize unhelpful thought patterns, and equip them with tools to correct these detrimental cycles.
• Medication: Some medications are specifically designed to rebalance the chemicals in the brain that may contribute to depression. Antidepressants, as their name suggests, work by altering the brain’s chemical composition to enhance mood. Typically, patients begin to notice improvements within a couple of weeks, and they can always adjust the dosage or type of medication to achieve the best results.
• Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Psychotherapy, often referred to as “talk therapy,” is commonly employed to address forms of depression that can be resolved through an individual’s effort to work through life’s challenges. It can be especially helpful in understanding and addressing childhood trauma or personal difficulties. Speaking with an impartial, qualified professional who listens objectively and offers insights can be a valuable part of the treatment process. Psychotherapy is often used in combination with medication to provide comprehensive care and can be conducted one-on-one, in group settings, or with family members involved.

Additionally, there are several lifestyle changes every individual can do to stop feeling depressed. For example, regular exercise is a proven way to change the chemistry of the body and trigger the release of chemicals that trigger positive emotions. Getting the proper amount of sleep and eating a balanced diet can also help to keep your body and mind at peace. Cutting out people in your life that trigger your depression is another huge way to tackle it. Lastly, reducing habits that make you feel down, such as drinking alcohol or smoking, also helps.

At 1st Step, we understand that no two individuals are the same, and neither are their experiences with depression. Our approach begins with a thorough assessment to identify the specific factors contributing to your depression. This allows us to tailor a treatment plan that suits you best.

For those who may benefit from medication, our expert medical team carefully evaluates your needs and closely monitors your progress to ensure that any prescribed medications are optimized for your well-being.

Our dedicated team of mental health professionals is not only highly qualified but also compassionate. We create a safe and welcoming environment where you can openly discuss your concerns and work towards healing.

Recovery from depression is a journey, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.