How Therapy Helps Depression
Therapy for depression helps you understand your depression, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes. It can help you:
- Understand the causes and patterns of your depression
- Develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills
- Challenge negative thoughts and beliefs
- Increase activity and engagement in life
- Improve relationships and social connections
- Develop self-compassion and self-care practices
- Prevent relapse and maintain progress
Best Types of Therapy for Depression
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Very effectiveHighly effective for depression. Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Very effectiveFocuses on improving relationships and social functioning, which can help with depression.
Psychodynamic Therapy
EffectiveExplores how past experiences influence current depression. Good for understanding underlying causes.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Effective for relapse preventionPrevents depression relapse by combining mindfulness with cognitive therapy techniques.
Behavioral Activation
EffectiveFocuses on increasing engagement in positive, rewarding activities to combat depression.
When to Consider Therapy for Depression
Consider therapy if you're experiencing:
- •Persistent sadness or low mood
- •Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- •Changes in sleep or appetite
- •Fatigue or lack of energy
- •Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- •Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- •Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (seek immediate help)
Find a Depression Therapist
Search our directory to find therapists who specialize in treating depression. Filter by specialty, location, and approach.