Does therapy help with depression?

[Anonymous]

I've been in this for a while and honestly I know what I need to do but I am having an extremely hard time getting the motivation I need. I've taken psych classes and I know what helps depression, and I have close friends that I talk to, but I am having a difficult time making this terrible feeling go away. I feel like it's holding me back and I want to get rid of it. Will therapy actually help or are they just going to tell me to excessive and make small goals everyday?

[ninetynine]

If you want to benefit from therapy, read reviews and find a therapist that you think you'd get along with, and also allow yourself to really open up to him/her. I went to one once a week for a month in high school (my mom made me) and would barely talk; I was so closed off, and consequently didn't benefit much.

Honestly, it's nice to be able to let everything out to a neutral source, and see if they have any recommendations/advice. I think you should give it a try at this point. Just go to one session and see if it's for you.

Other things that may help with your depression:
- Exercise. Get those happy endorphins flowing through your brain. =]
- Getting enough sleep every night. This one's important.
- Journaling.
- Reading books with characters you relate with.

[Victorianna]

Yes i think it does help. My father was a Psychiatric doctor, and he dedicated his life to helping and treating people with many forms of Mental Health illnesses. He helped a lot of people to recover or manage their depression so they could lead a more happier and fulfilling life. The treatment will be tailor - made to suit your needs. You don't have to do anything you don't want to do. It is up to you to apply it in your own life. Obviously you will benefit more if you follow their guidance.

[thetundrawolf]

Honestly it only helps so much. I was on prescription drugs for a while and it helped until I couldn't afford them, then I went right back to where I was before. I have a lot of demons I deal with, but being drug free has helped tons. It's hard. I know the idea of God isn't popular with a lot of people but seeking Him has helped me.

[broadsword]

Yes it does. The dark thoughts take time to control. To start with don't fight them just let them flow over you knowing they will pass.
Therapy will help you find the cuase. For some people they need to understand that before they can progress.
I wish you well.

[TheBootyChest]

I think it will help you out. It helps just to talk it out with someone. Either so you can just get it out in the open. Or for a sounding board.

It's possible that they may tell you to do small goals. But you need to find someone who will help you process your feelings about things. Doing physical things may not always help your mental state.

[Avenuewriter]

Yes, but the person getting the therapy has to be open and willing to work on it with the advice their therapist gives them. Ultimately, a therapist is going to give you the tools you need to handle depression, it's up to you to use them. It's hard, but it is certainly worth it. I know, I've suffered from depression for most of my life, and I'm certain I wouldn't be here if it weren't for therapy.

[existing_not_living]

I go to therapy. I have major major major depression. It's bad. I go to therapy and it's really helpful for me to have someone to talk to. When I stop going to therapy things start to go downhill for me quickly. I don't know why, but when I'm not seeing my therapist weekly or every other week I spiral back out of control. It's helped me a lot. It might help you too. I would give it a go. You never know unless you try.

[jtmc731]

Yes, therapy can help. First and foremost, though, you MUST be honest with yourself and the therapist. If you keep anything a secret, you'll ruin the chances you have. You must also go into therapy open minded, willing to achieve a positive outcome.

Cognitive behavioral therapy may be a good start.

[Hidden_P]

From someone who has battled depression my whole life and recently it's a lot worse I need to ask.

Are you taking any medication?

I am on meds and in councilling because my depression is caused by a trauma although I am naturally depressed.

Therapy is more for people who have gone through an ordeal rather than those who feel a bit blue. It's more aimed at overcoming something.

You need to ask yourself why you are depressed. From there you can find the right treatment.

[SaraLovesUnicorns]

I see a therapist for my depression, and it has honestly been one of the best things I have went through with. They don't judge you, they listen to what you have to say, they help you set goals and they let you know that they are here for you. I tell mine about everything I want, she tells me what I need to work on, and helps me set goals for it. She helps me figure out coping skills for my interests. She is amazing. I highly recommend trying it out

[apple24]

Um!!! Pick me! I am actually have an appiontment to see a thearpist this month. I think I can't fix myself I need professional help! I need it. I keep faliling classes because I lost motivation at some point. No more. nope! I am going to socialize and study and thats finally. If I have to force myself to talk I will. Its for my own good. Ya know I know it sucks but you just have to do it.

[Vitdom]

You say you have taken psych classes and know what helps depression. Could you please share? There are many depressed people out there who have no idea. Why do you think so many suicides occur?

[Asker]

I just meant that I have read what doctors recommend for patients with depression. Like exsercise, eating healthy, socializing etc. Not that I know it works. I guess I worded it wrong.

[nemer26]

I just went yesterday. And while I know it's going to take time, but I felt a little better leaving. I definitely think if you're open and honest it's beneficial.

[fauchelevent]

Noting helps everyone with everything. However, speaking from experience, therapy does help with mental health.

[jman46241]

I don't think therapy will work unless someone is open and receptive to it. I also don't believe anyone knows what helps depression unless they have experienced it themselves..

[reptocarl]

As someone totally disabled by major depression I can say yes it does work but i's directly proportional to the honesty you put into it

[Possible_Mate]

i think it really depends on the therapist. some might do just that but if you get a good one it will probably help you.

[mr90skid]

Talking out your problems with one should help. At least you'll know that route wasn't for you if it fails.

[sp33d]

If you are honest with yourself, yes, it will help. Don't think therapy is a free-ride, though. There will be lots of work done required by you and most importantly, you need to be patient, but consistent.

[snowangle]

Absolutely. If you're totally authentic and honest with your therapist, it'll help immensely.

[YingKim]

I think it can help. Sometime it take long or you need find right one, but it can be very helpful. Good luck!

[notenough]

no therapy never helped me, people who where honest to me and up front about everything I asked, gave me closure when I was young,

[IBMtrait]

Yes it will. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is shown to be really affective in treating depression. I would highly suggest it.

[IBMtrait]

*effective

I think.

[Anonymous]

It helps me and I use the sessions as a release at the very least.