Depression, anxiety, stress, panic attacks – We hear more about these mental health issues than ever before. Unfortunately, there are many people who do not seek help for these conditions. Just like you are concerned about your physical health, you should take time to get your mind in place. There is enough evidence to prove that psychotherapy sessions help with depression and anxiety.
What exactly is psychotherapy?
In simple words, psychotherapy refers to talk therapy, and a psychotherapist works with a patient to help them work on their wellbeing by changing their behavior, thought patterns and feelings. Psychotherapy can be recommended for various conditions beyond depression, including PTSD, substance abuse, and even to deal with trauma following the loss of someone dear. Psychotherapy is a collaborative form of therapy, where patients and psychotherapists have to work together to get better. Psychotherapists are expected to be extremely engaged in patient’s wellbeing and they offer as much support as possible, so that the person can open up.
Can a psychotherapist give medications?
No, psychotherapists are not required or capable of giving medication for depression. What they can definitely offer is counseling, support, and they can teach about things like mind relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and changing behavior. If required, the psychotherapist will refer a patient suffering from depression to a psychiatrist, who may find it necessary to give antidepressants, but that is not always the first approach. Your psychotherapist will do everything possible to ensure that you can share your thoughts and feelings, and he/she may recommend doing certain things that can improve your depression. Medication is only recommended when a patient is unable to derive any benefit from psychotherapy sessions alone.
Talking about mental health
Psychotherapy is useful and can be combined with other forms of therapy to improve conditions like depression, stress and anxiety. You have to approach a psychotherapist with an open mind, because it may mean challenging your mind and behavior sometimes beyond expectations. Also, it is necessary and important to be consistent with your sessions. Most patients with depression do need a few sessions before they can see considerable benefit from psychotherapy.
Final word
Psychotherapy is extremely useful for depression and dealing with your emotions and hopelessness. Don’t shy away from seeking help, and make sure that you do your bit to keep up with what your psychotherapist has recommended. Psychotherapy can help you change the way you feel your emotions, especially sadness.