Cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT is a popular talking therapy that many psychotherapists use as a treatment for depression. Traditional psychotheraputic methods as well as general counseling are also forms of talk therapy which, in addition to medications, can be effective treatment for depression.
Finding a counselor or psychiatrist with whom the patient is able to build a rapport is extremely important. Those suffering from depression often find it difficult to seek help for their condition (in fact, not wanting to do anything or care for oneself are symptoms of depression). Once a patient does make an effort to get treatment for depression, their having a doctor with whom they are able to make a connection, and who they feel are invested in their welfare, is essential.
When depressed patients have a good relationship with their doctors and counselors, they are more likely to continue their treatment for depression. However, since many people who suffer from depression find that the condition negatively effects their ability to form and maintain relationships with others, making a connection with a doctors and counselors is not always easy.
Being able to gain access to treatment for depression is also another problem which many patients face. As therapy sessions may not be covered by insurance, or patients who need treatment may not have insurance, therapy may not be within financial reach for some of the patients who need it the most. Even those who are able to afford sessions with counselors or psychiatrists may have to wait months just to be seen for an appointment as the need for treatment for depression is so great, that there are usually many more patients than there are health care professionals to see them.
It's a sad situation which only helps to perpetuate the symptoms of depression and feelings of hopelessness. Those who are dealing with a condition which makes it difficult, if not impossible to even get out of bed some days cannot help but feel more discouraged if when they do eventually make the effort to seek treatment for depression find that they have to wait before they are able to get access to the resources that can help them feel better.
Family practitioners are able to prescribe antidepressants to their patients, too, so it may be an easier alternative to seek an appointment with a family doctor and at least start a course on an antidepressant while waiting to get in with a psychiatrist. For patients who are not suffering from major depression, seeking treatment for their depression from their family doctor may be all they need. However, those who suffer from clinical depression would likely benefit from a combination of therapy and medication from counselors and psychiatrists.
Unfortunately, there is no magic cure for depression. And treatment for depression is often long and only partially effective, if at all. However, the depression will only linger if treatment is not sought. Treatment of depression can be helpful when patients make the effort to find health care professionals who are trained in treating depression.
