Psychiatrists help patients with depression create a treatment plan that fits their needs. Treatment plans typically involve a combination of treatments, which possibly include psychotherapy, lifestyle improvements, and medication.
From talk therapy to electroconvulsive therapy, there are many approaches to depression treatment. This review highlights and compares some of the more common treatments involved with a depression management plan from a psychiatrist.
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, involves a one-on-one and confidential discussion of the patient’s depression with a licensed psychiatrist. The psychiatrist may ask a series of questions to help the patient work through the underlying causes of depression, potential triggers, and coping mechanisms. The patient can also discuss anything that may be on their mind that potentially affects their mental health. There are different types of psychotherapy. However, the most common type of depression is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
Medication can also help with depression treatment, but it is not intended as a stand-alone treatment. Many psychiatrists recommend medications along with cognitive-behavioral therapy. Of course, the most common type of medication that is prescribed for depression is antidepressants. Specifically, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are known to help many patients with depression. However, other medications may also be available to help with treatment for certain patients.
Lifestyle changes are often an integral component of a depression treatment plan, including making health and dietary changes, improving relationships, and setting personal boundaries that help avoid potential triggers. Also, exercise can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Diet is also a large component of depression treatment for many. The psychiatrist can discuss foods and drinks patients should incorporate or avoid for depression relief during the first session.
The goal of a depression treatment plan is to find what works for the individual. Many patients report feeling better about their depression when practicing these alternative therapies regularly:
During the first few sessions with a psychiatrist for depression treatment, the psychiatrist and the patient can put together a plan that can include alternative therapies such as the ones mentioned above.
Treatment-resistant depression, or TRD, is a more severe form of depression in which medication and therapy alone are insufficient. In this case, the psychiatrist may recommend additional forms of treatment. These possible options include:
These treatments, and others that are similar, are riskier with more notable possible side effects, which is why it is reserved for patients who are not seeing improvement through other means. However, when performed properly, these treatments can be incredibly helpful.
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We begin with a psychiatric assessment to determine if your symptoms indicate depression and another mental health concern. From there, we can put together a depression treatment plan that works well for your needs and treatment goals.
Request an appointment or call NYC Psychiatric Associates at 917-391-0076 for an appointment in our New York office.
Every year, more than 17 million individuals in the United States deal with depression. Depression, characterized by disruptions in a person's emotions, behavior, and thoughts, deprives a person of their ability to experience pleasure in life. Patients often experience a state of near-total numbness or persistent grief. The psychiatrist will typically recommend the proper treatment…
Non-invasive depression treatment is a great way to alleviate symptoms of depression safely. This review provides everything about non-invasive depression treatment options, including your options and how to choose the right treatment plan.Non-invasive depression treatment is a form of depression treatment that focuses on the safest possible treatments. Certain medications and procedures are often invasive…
You might need depression treatment if you have lost interest in things you once enjoyed and often feel depressed. You may also have trouble sleeping or sleeping too much. You may have changes in your appetite or weight. You might feel exhausted all the time or have less energy than usual. Depression can also cause…
Every year, more than 17 million individuals in the United States deal with depression. Depression, characterized by disruptions in a person's emotions, behavior, and thoughts, deprives a person of their ability to experience pleasure in life. Patients often experience a state of near-total numbness or persistent grief. The psychiatrist will typically recommend the proper treatment…
Non-invasive depression treatment is a great way to alleviate symptoms of depression safely. This review provides everything about non-invasive depression treatment options, including your options and how to choose the right treatment plan.Non-invasive depression treatment is a form of depression treatment that focuses on the safest possible treatments. Certain medications and procedures are often invasive…