Therapy for Depression and Anxiety

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, the treatment of any illness--whether it be mental or physical--should be focused around a particular diagnosis that is reached by a trained professional. For individuals who are diagnosed with both depression and anxiety, it is important that their treatment plan is designed to not only aid them in managing their symptoms, but also in reducing their symptoms. This may be accomplished for both their anxiety and depression simultaneously, as in many cases, both disorders can be treated in similar ways. For example, an individual’s therapist can employ particular methods that address and reduce symptoms from both disorders at once.

However, some individuals may find that either their depression or anxiety is causing more distress and discomfort than the other. In this case, it would make sense to address the more symptomatic disorder first. For example, treatment for anxiety disorders tends to demand high levels of energy and motivation, and if someone who is looking to treat their anxiety is also severely depressed, they may not be able to seek said treatment until they have first addressed their depression. In most cases, unfortunately, even trained mental healthcare professionals may have a hard time discerning whether it is symptoms related to depression or anxiety taking the front seat. In cases such as this, treatment for both disorders would likely begin simultaneously.

In terms of the treatment of depression and anxiety, there are several different types of psychotherapy that have proven to be very effective in a wide range of individuals. One such form of therapy is known as cognitive behavioral therapy. In this type of therapeutic approach, a therapist will help their client replace their thought patterns that may be maladaptive and negative with ones that are more useful and rooted in reality. Another therapeutic route, that can even be used as a supplement to psychotherapy, may be starting medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Here in America, antidepressants are the most popular medication taken by individuals between 18 and 24. This means that more than 10% of Americans take these medications regularly.

Another highly effective form of therapy is group therapy. Here at Grouport, we offer online group therapy. All of our incoming clients will receive a 20-minute initial consultation that is conducted by a licensed mental healthcare professional. And each of our weekly group sessions are an hour long. Indeed, cognitive behavioral therapy can also be conducted in group settings, which will allow individuals to work with others who are living through similar struggles and situations. Therapy groups reassure individuals that they are not alone in what they are going through, and provide them with the unique opportunity to connect with others dealing with similar issues. Furthermore, people in therapy groups have the chance to talk through their problems with people who come from various different backgrounds; this means that they can offer unique perspectives regarding the problems at hand. You may find answers to more Grouport related FAQs here.

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