Depression is a serious condition that affects millions of people of all ages. When someone feels very sad and hopeless most of the time, they might have severe depression.
This kind of depression can make it hard to do everyday things like going to school, hanging out with friends, or even getting out of bed. The good news is that there are many ways to treat severe depression to help people feel better.
In this article, we will discuss severe depression treatment and where you can go for treatment if you are located in Phoenix, AZ.
What is Severe Depression?
Severe depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is more than just feeling sad sometimes. It means feeling very sad, hopeless, and losing interest in things you used to enjoy for a long time.
Some common signs of severe depression are:
- Feeling sad or empty most of the time
- Losing interest in hobbies and activities
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Feeling tired or having no energy
- Feeling worthless or very guilty
- Having trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Thinking about death or suicide
If you or someone you know has these symptoms, it’s important to get help right away.
***If you or someone you love is thinking of death or suicide, get help by calling 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free. ***
Severe Depression Treatment Options
There are different ways to treat severe depression, and you might need a mix of treatments to feel better. Here are some common options:
Medication
Antidepressants
These are medicines that help balance the chemicals in your brain that affect your mood. There are different types, and it might take a while to find the right one for you. Some common ones are:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
SPRAVATO (Esketamine) Nasal Spray
This is a newer medicine for people who haven’t felt better with other antidepressants and have treatment-resistant depression. You use it by spraying it into the nose. It works well under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Therapy
Psychotherapy, often called “talk therapy,” is a key treatment for severe depression. It involves talking with a trained therapist to understand and manage the feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that cause severe depression.
The main types of this treatment are:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This type of talk therapy helps you spot and change negative thoughts and behaviors. CBT can help reduce symptoms of depression.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
This therapy helps you improve your relationships and communication skills, which can make you feel better.
Psychodynamic Therapy
This therapy looks at past experiences and how they affect your current emotions and actions. It aims to help you understand and solve deeper issues.
Lifestyle Changes
Exercise
Regular physical activity can boost your mood and help reduce depression. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals that make you feel happy.
Healthy Diet
Eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains can improve your overall health and mood.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep and having a regular sleep schedule is important for your mental health, especially if you are dealing with mental health issues. Avoiding caffeine and screens before bedtime can help you sleep better.
Support Network
Having a support network is very important for treating severe depression. This means surrounding yourself with family, friends, and people who care about you. They can offer emotional support, listen to you, and help you stick to your treatment plan.
Joining a support group can also help you connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
In addition to family and friends, professional support networks such as therapists and counselors play a crucial role in providing ongoing support and guidance.
Breaking the Stigma
Some people are afraid to get help for their mental health issues because of the stigma. We need to understand this stigma and try to break it. We can do this by learning about depression and talking about it with others.
It’s important to treat mental health like we treat physical health, without any shame or embarrassment.
Severe Depression Treatment in Phoenix, AZ
Severe depression can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that effective treatments are available. From medication and therapy to lifestyle changes and support systems, there are many ways to manage and overcome severe depression. If you or someone you know is struggling, take the first step toward recovery today.
At My Buoyant Health in Phoenix, AZ, we understand the profound impact depression can have on your life. Our dedicated mental health providers offer compassionate care and personalized treatment plans, including medication management, SPRAVATO®, and holistic medical approaches.
Don’t wait any longer—take the first step towards healing by calling us at (602) 510-6582 or scheduling an appointment using our appointment form.
We look forward to serving you!
