Talk Therapy May Help Your Depression

If you're suffering with depression, you might find relief through psychotherapy.  You may think that talking about your problems won't make you feel better.  But there is plenty of evidence to show that talk therapy with a trained professional often brings results.

If your depression is mild to moderate, you may especially be able to benefit from psychotherapy.  Those with major depression are more likely to also need medication.  Many people benefit  from a combination of the two.

Two main types, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), have been shown to effectively treat depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

Unlike the classic psychoanalysis of Sigmund Freud, which can take years of lying on the doctor's couch talking about your past, CBT and IPT are short term — about 16 weekly sessions — and very directed toward solving problems. The therapist may be a social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist.

According to the National Association of Cognitive-Behavior Therapists: 

CBT is a collaborative effort between the therapist and the client.
Cognitive-behavioral therapists seek to learn what their clients want out of life (their goals) and then help their clients achieve those goals.  The therapist's role is to listen, teach and encourage, while the client's role is to express concerns, learn and implement that learning.

CBT is based on the idea that your thoughts, rather than external events or people, most influence how you feel and behave.  The therapist helps you identify how negative, unhealthy thinking or behaviors might be getting in your way. You can also explore difficult relationships and gain a sense of control of your life. 

IPT is used specifically to help treat depression.  The therapist uses techniques such as clarification, supportive listening and role playing to help you gain insights into what is troubling you.  According to the International Society for Interpersonal Psychotherapy, ITP groups problems into four main categories

• Interpersonal disputes, which often occur in marriage, family, workplace or social setting
• Role transitions where you have to adapt to new circumstances, such as an empty nest, divorce or caring for aging parents
• Grief that is complicated and long
• Interpersonal deficits, such as hostility or over-dependency 

Several large clinical trials have been conducted that show IPT and CBT to be effective in treating depression. In fact, some studies have shown them to be as effective as medication — but without any side effects.  They also can be used in conjunction with an anti-depressant. 

To help more people access treatment, Congress recently passed the Mental Health Parity Act.  This will expand insurance coverage of psychotherapy.  If you have health insurance, check with your insurer to learn what mental health treatment is covered.