Avoiding Isolation

Social isolation can cause or worsen the symptoms of depression. If you are prone to depression, it is vital to spend time with your friends and to participate in some form of community event where the group dynamics can provide excitement and release tension.

Talking Therapies

Four of the five talking therapy approaches can be of value in treating depression: these are psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic therapy and interpersonal therapy (IPT). A great deal of research has been published on the employment of these approaches. Overall, reviews suggest that therapies from the CBT group tend to be most effective.

The Psychodynamic Approach recognizes that depressed people have developed a very negative self-image, which usually begins in childhood. They are often highly critical of themselves, engaging in a self punishment that is expressed as a kind of internal battle. They may “invite” other people to join in with and so confirm their negative self-image.

This process is largely unconscious so that the goal of the therapy is to make the process more conscious: the therapist “declines the invitation” and gains an understanding of the internal conflict via the therapeutic relationship. As a result, new opportunities for emotional assimilation and insight open up for the client. Evidence suggests that this form of therapy is effective in both an individual and a group setting.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

The cognitive behavioral therapy Approach is not dissimilar to the psychodynamic approach and is based around negative thinking. The therapist’s goal is to help the client identify their negative thoughts, often by using a “thought diary” and thinking about alternatives. Other people’s behavior patterns, which often confirm the negative thoughts, are also identified – alternative behavior is generated and tried out by the client in
“Homework tasks”.

Problem-solving techniques can help clients to manage their lives so that they feel less overwhelmed by the world. A wealth of evidence supports the use of CBT in the treatment of depression, both with individuals and in groups.

Humanistic Approach

The Humanistic Approach aims to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment in which clients can explore their difficulties and provide a solution for themselves. Research suggests that a humanistic therapy, such as client-centered therapy, helps people who are depressed and that no significant advantage is gained by combining it with medication.

Interpersonal Therapy

Interpersonal Therapy tends to focus more on the client’s present personal relationships and how they are contributing to the feeling of depression. The goal of the therapy is to review these relationships and explore new potential ways of relating to other people. Interpersonal therapy has been shown to be particularly effective with adolescents.

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