Did you know that about 350 million people globally are dealing with some form of depression? If you?re one of them, the numbers make it fairly clear: you are not alone.
Most people are familiar with the basics of how to treat depression. Medication and therapy are among the top recommendations for treating this condition. A therapist may then recommend particular methods of treatment, such as environmental changes, finding new hobbies to stay occupied, et cetera.
Finding a way to treat depression is important because of the profound toll it can have on both the mind and body. Depression doesn?t just affect the individual, either; it impacts everyone around them.
Although it?s a little less traditional, for some people, family and group therapy may make a lot of sense. But exactly what defines this sort of therapy? Here are a few things you need to know.
Group Therapy
Group therapy involves numerous people dealing with the same issue, getting together and discussing what they are going through. These therapy groups are typically led by a trained psychologist who will help to lead the conversation and also know when to restrain it. This type of therapy is popular for issues like depression because it can help to demonstrate universality — that what the person is experiencing is common, and that they are not alone.
The group experience is also useful since members can learn from each other. Participants can explore how individuals have constructively dealt with their issues in the past, and discuss how to avoid destructive and damaging behaviors in the future. Group counseling allows people to have a safe environment in which to discuss their ongoing issues.
Family Therapy
You?ve heard of couples therapy, but what does it mean for depression? Not surprisingly, it can often be difficult for people to recognize what behaviors are inherent to the individual, and what behaviors are the result of their ongoing struggle with depressive episodes. Couples counseling can help couples work through understanding how to deal with a partner struggling with depression — such as learning how to be supportive, without feeling like one partner is being treated badly.
After seeing therapy services for couples, 93% of patients say that they have more effective tools for communicating with each other when they experience interpersonal problems.
Do you think family and group therapy could help with the struggles you?re experiencing? Let us know in the comments.
