Almost five percent of Americans ages 18 and older experience symptoms of depression. While this statistic is sobering, today’s medications and therapies give people with mental health issues real hope. Wellness coaching helps many individuals recover a sense of purpose and positivity.
Here is more on depression and how wellness coaching can be a valuable part of symptom management.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is a complex mental health disorder that can manifest in various ways. It affects people of all ages and walks of life, knowing no real economic or societal barriers.
Some common symptoms of depression include:
- Long-lasting feelings of deep sadness and hopelessness
- Poor self esteem
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of interest in favorite activities people once enjoyed
- Self-isolation
- Reduced energy levels
- Persistent feelings of guilt and shame
- Weight gain or weight loss
What Are the Treatment Options for Depression?
The good news is that there is real, evidence-based help for people who struggle with depression. The first step in the treatment of depression is an assessment by a trusted primary care physician. This examination can rule out any physical problems which could be causing the depressive symptoms.
If physical problems are not causing depression, then the next step is evaluation by a mental health professional. This may involve a series of screenings to determine the severity and type of depression an individual has.
Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options available.
These include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes and support groups. The right treatment plan is multi-pronged–that is, it combines more than one modality. Plus, the patient must desire real change and stability in mental and emotional health.
How Can Wellness Coaching Help Manage Depression?
A wellness coach is a trained professional who works with individuals to improve health and achieve life goals. While not a substitute for therapy or mental health medications, wellness coaching can be a valuable supplement to traditional treatments for depression.
What can a wellness coach provide? In your private sessions with our coach, you will discuss your current mental and emotional concerns, including any symptoms of depression you may be experiencing. Together, you will identify areas in your life that you feel may be contributing to your depression, such as family or job stressors or lifestyle habits.
With this information, the wellness coach will work with you to create a personalized plan to manage your depression. You will set small, achievable goals, learn self-care practices, and create healthy routines to give you a real sense of purpose in your life.
Two of the main benefits of wellness coaching are the support and accountability it provides. You and your coach will confer regularly to see how you are progressing. Your wellness coach will offer guidance and encouragement along the way so you optimize and maintain feelings of calm and balance in your life.
Together, you will also outline and discuss ways to:
- Be involved in community activities
- Eat a more balanced and nutritious diet
- Identify stressors and manage them
- Get regular and restful sleep
- Get fit and stay active through regular exercise and intentional movement
Many times, wellness coaches recommend mindfulness techniques to manage symptoms of depression. Mindfulness is a practice that teaches individuals to be fully present in the moment and to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, guilt, or shame.
Mindfulness helps people become more aware of their mental state. They learn to cope with negative emotions in healthier ways and to achieve more effective and positive goals and interpersonal relationships.
Wellness Coaching for Depression in Phoenix, AZ
At My Buoyant Health, our compassionate professional team offers individualized treatment for depression and other mental health issues. Our care focuses on the whole person–body, mind, and spirit–and truly enhances overall wellness and function.
To learn more about us and how we can help you understand depression and how to deal with it, call us today at (602) 510-6582 or request your visit online.
Let’s partner together in the pursuit of health and wellness!
