Depression affects more than 264 million people, and it is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Depression extends beyond just mere sadness; depression is a medical condition that can impact one’s mood, relationships, physical health, and emotional well-being. When left untreated, depression can lead to suicide, which accounts for 129 deaths in America each day.
Fortunately, depression is treatable. Outpatient therapy for depression supports individuals to navigate, understand, and better cope with their symptoms. Additionally, therapy provides a supportive environment for people to feel safe and validated in their struggles.
What Is Outpatient Therapy For Depression?
Mental health treatment usually falls into the following categories of inpatient, intensive outpatient, and outpatient therapy.
Inpatient therapy for depression is the highest level of mental health care. Inpatient treatment offers 24/7 structure and support. Clients live in a monitored facility, and they receive consistent supervision. A typical day of treatment may include individual therapy, group therapy, and appointments with case managers, psychiatrists, and doctors. This treatment is normally recommended for individuals who are in acute distress and who may be a danger to themselves or others.
Intensive outpatient therapy for depression is not as structured as inpatient care because clients do not live on-site. Instead, they may attend treatment around their work or school schedules. That said, they still may receive several hours of clinical support each day. Clients may transition to intensive outpatient therapy after completing inpatient care.
Finally, outpatient therapy for depression is the least restrictive form of care. It may be used as a transitional treatment after completing inpatient or intensive outpatient care. However, it may also be the first method of treatment for clients with mild or moderate depression. Outpatient therapy treatment for depression usually entails meeting with a therapist once or twice a week.
Therapy Goals and Therapy Activities For Adults With Depression
Outpatient therapy for depression often starts with assessing and screening for crisis issues. If an individual is in imminent danger of harming oneself or others, these urges must be addressed immediately.
After this screening, therapists usually work with clients to understand the role depression has on the individual’s overall functioning quality of life. Therapists may collaborate with their clients to process the emotions surrounding the depression. It’s not uncommon for clients to feel immense guilt, shame, anger, sadness, or fear over their symptoms. Therapy provides a safe place for exploring and processing these feelings.
Outpatient therapy for depression may also include learning new ways to manage your distress. It may entail coming to terms with pains and traumas from your past. Finally, it may require discussing and implementing changes in the way you live your life.
While specific goals may vary from individual to individual, typical goals in outpatient therapy for depression include:
- Increasing self-awareness into unconscious patterns and defense mechanisms
- Strengthening self-esteem
- Building and using a healthy support system
- Prioritizing self-care and self-compassion
- Addressing other co-occurring issues (trauma, substance use, anxiety)
Therapy can sometimes feel worse before it feels better. Confronting your feelings and exploring your patterns can be painful. With that in mind, this insight often paves the path towards a sustainable recovery.
Final Thoughts
Depression can feel chaotic and unforgiving. It can sabotage your relationships, jeopardize your happiness, and affect your performance in all areas of life. However, outpatient therapy for depression can provide you with the relief, support, and guidance you need to cope with your mental health.
Don’t prolong getting the help you need. Seeking outpatient therapy for depression may be the best decision you make. Contact us today to get started on your journey towards wellness.