Depression treatment

The cause of depression varies per person. Sometimes a painful and emotional event is the reason for the problems, such as a divorce, the death of a loved one or the loss of work. Heredity can also play a role. If a family member suffers from gloom, there is a greater chance that you will also suffer from gloomy feelings. But it is also possible that it is very unclear to you why you are depressed. If you recognize the characteristics of depression, it is advisable to seek help, even if it feels like a big step.

Depression is generally treatable. In therapy we help you understand what a depression is. For many people this is already very valuable and offers opportunities to get started. We try to identify the cause of your depression and together we discuss how you can deal with your depression in a different and more constructive way.

Therapies for depression

A psychologist can apply different forms of therapy during the conversations. The most commonly used therapy for depression is cognitive behavioral therapy, but other forms of therapy can also provide relief.

How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work for depression? The principle of CBT is that your thoughts influence your feelings and your behavior. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you change your thinking patterns. If you keep looking at events from a negative point of view, it is easier to become and remain gloomy. In cognitive therapy you examine with your therapist whether that way of thinking is correct. When it appears that you tend to judge all kinds of things too negatively, we will find out together which way of thinking is better. You learn to develop more realistic points of view and more positive thoughts. Specific exercises are used for this. This allows you to end the negative spiral of thoughts, behavior and feelings, which will improve your mood.

ACT therapy is a form of behavioral therapy and teaches you to let go the negative thoughts and feelings. This gives you space in your mind to focus your attention on acting in the present. It gives you the strength to do the things that are really important to you.

Mindfulness literally means ‘awareness’. Mindful living means that you give specific attention to your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations, in the moment and without judgment. Mindfulness helps in recognizing automatic, sometimes negative patterns. If you are aware of this, you can learn to break through these automatic reactions. This allows you to deal more effectively with stress, difficult feelings and you can enjoy more and experience peace and resilience. The effectiveness of mindfulness has been widely researched. Mindfulness has been proven to be effective in treating depression, but also in preventing a relapse after depression.

Body-oriented therapy (breathing and relaxation exercises) can also be used as support to treat your depression.

It is possible that one form of therapy is used, but a combination of different types of therapy is also a good option. At the start of the treatment process, you discuss with your therapist which form of therapy is best for you and your symptoms, and what feels comfortable for you. In this way, the treatment is tailor-made, so that you feel seen, heard and helped by us.

Contact Psychologen Amsterdam

Do you recognize your symptoms and do you need help or do you just have a question about the treatment of your depression? Then call for an appointment or send a message to Psychologen Amsterdam.