The Treatment of Depression

In this section of the site, we will eventually provide information on each of the primary treatments for depression that is supported by research.

For now: a brief summary.

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).

Cognitive behaviour therapy has a larger number of research studies supporting its use than any other form of psychotherapy.

As the name suggests, CBT focusses on what we do and how we think.

The behavioural side includes goal-setting to become more active, and lifestyle changes such as eating properly, exercising, maintaining a good sleep schedule, and building enjoyable activity into one's everyday life.

The cognitive side of CBT emphasizes the fact that our emotions come, in large part, from the way that we view the world. Cognitive therapy involves becoming aware of our thoughts about the events and situations in our lives, recognizing the distortions that often cause us to focus on the negative, and developing alternative ways of thinking that are more balanced and reality-based.

At Changeways Clinic we specialize in CBT therapy and training.

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).

IPT recognizes that humans are social creatures, and that many of our biggest problems have to do with the way that we relate to others.

In IPT, the emphasis is on developing good communication skills, managing the various roles in our lives, dealing with transitions (for example, from singlehood to coupledom or vice versa), and coping with the development of intimacy and the reality of loss.

Medication.

A variety of medications are used to treat the various mood disorders. Although side effects are not uncommon, many people find these approaches to be enormously helpful.

Coming Soon: In the weeks and months ahead, we hope to post more detailed descriptions of the various types of depression treatment.

Note: Information on these pages is provided for educational purposes only. It should not be taken as a substitute for care from a qualified healthcare provider.