Depression is one of the most common and serious mood disorders.
It’s not just about feeling blue, though; it is about experiencing a constant state of sadness. As a result, you lose interest in anything. It also impacts your sleep and energy level. Even worse, you become vulnerable to several emotional and physical problems.
Although many people control depression with outpatient therapy and medication, sometimes a more intensive level of care, such as a depression treatment facility, is necessary.
But how do you tell if you really need to visit a depression treatment center? Here are some telltale signs to look out for when reaching out to them.
WHAT IS A DEPRESSION TREATMENT FACILITY?
Also known as a residential treatment center or an inpatient program, a depression treatment center or facility provides professional help to people facing extreme depression. They have a structure and supportive environment for the patients. These facilities provide full depression therapy services, including, but not limited to, various types of therapies, medication management, and holistic therapy under one roof.
They provide intensive therapy as well as teach the person how to deal with the depression. Not only do these centers provide constant support, but they also provide a place where one can pacify their daily triggers.
When to Visit a Depression Treatment Center
Considering a depression treatment center is a crucial decision. It should be visited when you have tried all options. Some signs that you may need this level of care are…
Outpatient Treatment Isn’t Working
Sometimes, seeing a therapist regularly and following their medication might not work. In fact, the symptoms may get worse instead of improving.
If outpatient depression therapy alone is not producing the expected results, it is high time to consider a depression treatment facility that is more controlled and structured.
Severe Symptoms and Impaired Functioning
A residential setting is very helpful when your depression has become so bad that living your normal life is hard, if not impossible. This might include:
- Not maintaining personal hygiene; not being able to shower; not being able to dress or look after herself/himself.
- Feeling extreme isolation. Avoiding friends, family, and activities you once enjoyed.
- Not being able to take care of dependents
Recurrent Suicidal Thoughts or Self-Harm
This might be the biggest indicator that you need to opt for intensive care. For persistent thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm, a depression treatment center will offer a safety net and intensive support when you need it. They offer 24-hour guided supervision from staff trained to intervene if a crisis arises — something that isn’t feasible in outpatient settings.
Substance Abuse Co-Occurring with Depression
Many individuals suffering from depression often self-medicate through alcohol or drug use. If you are battling with both depression and substance abuse, an integrated depression treatment facility that offers dual-diagnosis treatment can address both problems at the same time. Attempting to treat one and neglect the other meets only partial success.
Absence of a stable environment at home
Sometimes, the home environment can aggravate the stress.
But if you have no solid support system at home or your surroundings are triggering your depression, a facility can provide an escape while surrounding you with peers and professionals who understand what you are going through.
Previous Hospitalizations for Depression
If someone has been hospitalized at a psychiatric facility because of severe depression, that could be a sign that they may need a more intense and preventive approach. A treatment center encourages you to develop more effective coping skills so you can avoid another crisis.
Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions
Depression frequently overlaps with anxiety disorders, PTSD, or eating disorders. A full-scale depression treatment center will be able to deal with all of these interrelated problems using a complete set of integrated depression therapy services.
What to Expect in a Depression Treatment Facility
Each facility is different, but in general, you can expect:
Individual Therapy:
Personalized therapy sessions with a mental health practitioner utilizing evidence-based approaches such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) or DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
Group therapy:
Getting help from others with similar depression problems, feeling a sense of community, and togetherness.
Medication Management:
Availability of a psychiatrist for prescribing and titrating medications as needed.
Holistic therapies:
This may include yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, or other evidence-based activities. Some facilities may also offer equine therapy.
Life skills:
Learning skills that help with stress management, healthy relationships, and healthy lifestyles.
How to Choose a Depression Treatment Center
So if you are considering a depression treatment facility, here are some things to remember.
Talk to your physician or mental health professional:
They can evaluate you and suggest suitable alternatives. Also, ask if you need to continue the treatment with them.
Search Research Facilities:
Search for facilities that provide evidence-based depression therapy services. Make sure they are accredited facilities that specialize only in depression.
Think about location:
While there are great facilities throughout the nation, sometimes it may make sense to be closer to home. Choose them only if they provide quality treatment.
The Cost:
It is an important factor to consider. Make sure to ask if they have transparent pricing in place. Also, see if your insurance can cover certain parts of the treatment.
Treatment philosophy and program:
Look for a facility that can meet your needs
Verify the qualifications of the staff:
Prefer the facility that employs licensed and experienced professionals. Checking their websites for such details can be a great help.
The Road to Recovery
For those who consider a depression treatment facility, it can be a sign that they are taking an important step towards regaining their lives and overcoming their struggles. It is an investment in your mental health and well-being. Of course, some patients may find it intimidating to go away for a treatment at a new place. The structured and welcoming environment can be supportive. Plus, you can share your experiences with people suffering from the same problems.
Just remember that no one has to deal with depression on their own. You are not alone, and there is hope.
