Depression Therapy
Depression Therapy in Atlanta
Are you feeling sad and just going through the motions?
- Are you looking for depression therapy in Atlanta or virtually?
- Do you find yourself not feeling as happy as you imagine you could be?
- Do things in your life not bring you as much joy as they used to?
- Are you feeling less motivated?
- Do you not feel your best and hope there is a way to feel less sad or depressed?
Feelings of sadness or depression can happen to anyone
It doesn’t matter if you have a great family, friends, job, or all the money in the world. Feelings of sadness do not discriminate. Anyone can experience unhapiness regardless of their life circumstances. Some people may feel sad for no reason that makes any logical sense to them. Other times people can feel sad after a big change or loss.
As psychologists who provide depression treatment in our Buckhead office in Atlanta as well as virtually, we want to assure you that no matter why you feel unhappy, no matter the cause, know that you are not alone and therapy can help you. In 2019, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, 19.4 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. We live in a fast paced society with so much pressure and obligations. We also live in a culture where we are supposed to look a certain way, raise kids a certain way, or live a certain type of life. It can just be too much at times.
We want you to know that depression therapy helps. With the support of a trained therapist, you can feel better.
Potential Depression Symptoms
Below are some possible symptoms. You do not need to have all of these to be feeling depressed or benefit from working with a depression therapist
1.Change in appetite
Increases or decreases in appetite nearly every day along with unintentional weight loss or weight gain is a potential symptom. People that experience an increased desire to eat often crave comfort foods that are high in sugar and provide that instant mood boost. This can lead to a crash later in the day, contributing to fatigue and a lack of energy to get it prepare nutritious meals. Thus, the cycle is perpetuated and these foods are craved even more.
2. Changes in sleeping
Increases or decreases in sleep are another potential symptom There may be trouble falling asleep, or sleeping in longer than usual. Insomnia, or difficulty falling and staying asleep, is estimated to be present in about 75 percent of adults diagnosed with depression. Lack of quality sleep can affect the body’s stress system, throw off the body’s natural circadian rhythm, and increase susceptibility for depression. These sleep problems often appear before a depressive episode and linger after the episode has ended. Improving sleep through the use of therapy and medications has been shown to improve symptoms as well. Other tips for sleeping better include sticking to a consistent wake/sleep schedule, keeping naps to 10-20 minutes, avoiding alcohol, exercising regularly, and spending time outside.
3. Lower interest in activities and hobbies
Typically, there is a lack of pleasure in activities that used to provide joy. This can include anything from socializing with friends and family, eating, music, events, conversations, sports, and even sex. Problems with the brain’s production or response to dopamine, a “feel-good” chemical, may be at play. This inability to find pleasure in life can lead to a serious decline in one’s quality of life.
4. Fatigue or loss of energy
Fatigue refers to feeling lethargic and having little energy for a prolonged period of time. It is not simply feeling sleepy or drowsy which can be fixed with a good night’s sleep. Depression suppresses the neurotransmitters in our alertness and reward systems, causing a decrease in energy levels. These low energy levels can be worsened by the other symptoms such as problems sleeping, staying inside, and reducing pleasurable activities.
5. Diminished ability to think or concentrate
Cognitive dysfunction, or “brain fog,” is a common symptom that impairs one’s ability to function in several ways. A 2015 study found that 85 to 94 percent of individuals diagnosed with depression had symptoms of cognitive dysfunction. Symptoms of cognitive dysfunction include a trouble paying attention, memory trouble, slowed reaction times, and difficulty with making decisions. These symptoms can permeate all aspects of one’s day-to-day life whether it be inattention at work, slower reaction times when driving, forgetting important dates, or ruminating over decisions. Due to cognitive dysfunction, some people see a decline in their work or academic performance.
6. Suicidal thoughts
Some people experience suicidal thoughts. Suicidal thoughts they should be addressed by a trained professional. Some people have thoughts about wanting to disappear while others want to kill themselves. It is crucial that people experiencing suicidal intent or plan are not in an environment with access to weapons, medications, or other mechanisms of harm. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, inform your primary care doctor, therapist, or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273 – 8255. If you or someone you know has already taken steps to harm themselves and are in an emergency situation, call 911 immediately.
Depression Treatment
Working with a depression therapist is a research supported treatment approach. You will come to better understand the cause of your feelings of sadness. Our psychologists will provide you with skills to navigate negative self-talk. We will work with you on making changes in your thinking which will impact how you feel and what you do. We also will talk about behavior changes you can make in your day to day life to help you feel better. You will have concrete skills and insight that you can use to help improve your mood.
We have many years of experience providing treatment. We have worked with clients in hospitals, college counseling centers, medical centers, and private practice. We have counseled clients 10 to 90 years old struggling with feelings of sadness. Additionally, we have provided therapy for depression in Atlanta, GA and throughout the US.
In a safe and compassionate environment, we will work with you to help you have better days ahead!
Depression Therapy FAQ
Q: Does depression therapy help?
A: Our experience and the research show that depression therapy is very effective. Therapy teaches you skills to help change your thinking and behaviors. It also helps you work through feelings such as sadness, loneliness, or frustration. Therapy can really help you feel so much better.
Q: What is the best treatment for depression in Atlanta?
A: There are a few things to consider in finding the best treatment for depression. You want to make sure you are seeing someone who has training and experience. All our therapists have a minimum of 5 years experience providing therapy. You also want to make sure your therapist has experience and training in treating depression; and you can rest assured we all do. Everyone on our team has a doctorate, which is the highest level of education and degree you can receive as a therapist.
In finding the best treatment for depression in Atlanta, it is also important to consider if it is one you can commit to. You can come see us at our Buckhead office. We are right off the highway and easily accessible from Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Decatur, Midtown, and anywhere inside the perimeter. We offer morning and evening appointments to fit your schedule. You also don’t have to leave your home – if you do not want to. You can curl up with a blanket and a cup of tea and speak to an experienced therapist from your own couch.
Q: Do I have to take medication?
A: Taking medication is a very personal choice. Therapy is an effective treatment, and taking medication can also be effective. The combination of therapy and medication for some people can help relieve symptoms at the fastest rate. For some clients that we work with we may suggest meeting with a psychiatrist or primary care physician for a consultation about medication. However, we have worked with many clients who have gotten out of depressive episodes and significantly improved their symptoms without ever taking medication. As therapists, we cannot prescribe medication, so if you are wanting medication we can make a referral. We work with many physicians and psychiatrists and are happy to connect you with someone for medication. We will work with them as a team
Q: How do I know when to reach out for support?
A: If you are reading this, it is a good sign you would benefit from therapy. Please do not be afraid to reach out. If you are feeling sad or having any symptom of depression our team is here to support you or a loved one.
Q: How long will depression therapy take?
A: This really depends on the severity of depression, personal goals, and the individual. Your therapist will conduct a comprehensive initial appointment and then develop personalized goals and a plan to help you feel better. Some clients see us for months and some much longer. If you are depressed, we will want to work on helping your symptoms improve from day one. We encourage you to ask your depression therapist how long therapy typically lasts.
If you are looking for therapy for depression, know that you are in the right place. You can schedule an appointment or complimentary consultation.
The psychologists at the practice provide therapy in Atlanta as well as online to clients throughout the United States.