Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall health that is often ignored or stigmatized despite its vital role in maintaining our well-being. However, recent years have seen an increase in public health initiatives that aim to address mental health, reducing social stigma around mental health and encouraging more people to seek help. In this blog post, we’ll explore how mental health and public health intersect, how these initiatives manifest, and where they can be improved.
The Relationship between Mental Health and Public Health
Mental health is intrinsically linked to public health: an individual’s physical and mental well-being contributes to their ability to function productively within society. Therefore, initiatives to improve public health must also address mental health. The World Health Organization identifies mental health as a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the everyday stresses of life, can work productively, and can contribute to their community. From this definition, it is clear that positive mental health has far-reaching effects on individuals, communities, and, ultimately, society.
Public Health Initiatives
Public health initiatives have come to recognize the importance of mental health. One such initiative is the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), which runs a program called “Ending the Silence,” which brings awareness about mental health to middle and high school campuses. Mental Health First Aid is another initiative designed to provide community members with the tools to help someone when they’re suffering from a mental health crisis. Even businesses are taking a newfound interest in mental health, sometimes offering employee-provided counseling or mental health days.
Personal Responsibility and Mental Health
In addition to public health initiatives, personal responsibility plays a massive role in bridging the gap between mental health and public health initiatives. We must take care of our mental health while educating ourselves about the importance of mental health and seeking professional help when necessary. We must destigmatize mental health conversations, making it more acceptable to seek help when needed.
Future of Mental Health and Public Health Initiatives
Mental health and public health initiatives have made substantial progress in the past few years. Still, many challenges remain, and much work must be done to create a world where mental health is not an afterthought but is integrated into all aspects of public health. The more people understand the importance of mental health, the more our society will recognize and embrace the importance of addressing mental health concerns proactively and holistically.
In conclusion, The initiative surrounding the bridging of the gap between mental health and public health is a step in the right direction. While progress has been made, it is vital that we continue our efforts to promote the integration of mental health across all platforms of public health. With more focus on mental health, more robust public health initiatives, and personal responsibility, we can create a world where mental health is just as important as physical health. Bridging this gap lays the foundation for a more caring and healthy society.
It is common knowledge that Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Abuse are intimately linked. Experts have repeatedly emphasized that it’s crucial to address the co-occurrence of PTSD and substance abuse, as treating one without treating the other often results in relapse. It’s why seeking group therapy should be a priority for people with PTSD and substance abuse. Group Therapy offers a safe and supportive environment where individuals can speak about their experiences, connect with others, and draw strength from shared struggles.
PTSD & Substance Abuse: The Unbreakable Connection
PTSD and Substance Abuse have a symbiotic relationship, each fueling the other’s symptoms. Frequently, people with PTSD turn to substance abuse to bypass the numbing pain that PTSD brings about. At the same time, constant substance abuse can lead to anxiety, paranoia, and distress, further worsening PTSD symptoms. Nonetheless, studies show that group therapy is more effective than individual therapy for individuals with PTSD and Substance abuse. Group Therapy offers a place to share experiences and get advice and feedback from the group.
Being Heard and Forming Connections
PTSD and Substance Abuse can make a person feel alone and isolated as they cycle through their relapses. Grouo therapy offers a safe environment where they can be heard and connect with people with similar experiences. In this setting, individuals can be vulnerable, share, and work through their concerns with others who understand them. It helps build relationships and promotes accountability, which makes it easier to stay on the path to recovery.
Group Therapy: Effective in the Long-Term
While individual therapy can be beneficial, it can’t replace the value of group therapy. Group therapy supports long-term recovery, building social and emotional resiliency to sustain sobriety. Through group therapy, individuals can learn coping strategies they can use daily. It also enhances decision-making skills, improves communication, and builds confidence.
Practical Tools for Recovery
Group therapy offers practical tools to help individuals cope and recover. This includes skill-building activities, self-monitoring techniques, and progress tracking. Substance abuse creates a chemical dependence that needs to be addressed and group therapy offers effective methods to achieve long-term recovery.
A Support System That Never Disappears
PTSD and Substance Abuse affect daily life, whether it is their triggers or managing their symptoms. Group Therapy offers ongoing support through each individual’s unique journey. While an individual’s lifestyle may change, and therapists may switch, one can always depend on a support system in a group therapy session.
The Power Of Group Therapy
For individuals seeking PTSD and Substance Abuse group therapy, knowing there is nothing more powerful than sharing experiences with others who understand their struggles is important. Group therapy provides social and emotional support individuals may not have had before. Individuals gain the confidence to make lasting changes by working through their fears, feelings, and experiences. So don’t wait another day to take advantage of group therapy and take control of your mental and emotional well-being.
In today’s fast-paced and increasingly interconnected world, mental health has never been more important. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, many individuals face challenges such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, which can significantly impact their overall well-being and quality of life. These mental health issues are not only widespread but also carry a heavy burden on individuals, families, and society as a whole. It is crucial for those struggling with these challenges to seek appropriate support and treatment in order to foster healing and growth. One powerful and often overlooked approach to addressing these mental health concerns is group therapy.
Group therapy provides a unique and supportive environment where individuals can come together to share their experiences, learn from one another, and work towards overcoming the obstacles they face. By participating in group therapy sessions, those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma can benefit from the collective wisdom, understanding, and empathy of others who have faced similar challenges.
In this blog post, we will explore the power of group therapy, delving into its foundations, benefits, and techniques that make it an invaluable tool for healing and personal growth. Join us as we uncover how shared experiences in group therapy can help heal anxiety, depression, and trauma, fostering a brighter future for those willing to embark on this transformative journey.
Young people with problems listening to their nervous female friend confession with shock reaction while sitting together on special group therapy.
The Fundamentals of Group Therapy
Before delving into the benefits and techniques of group therapy, it’s essential to understand its core principles and objectives. Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which a small group of individuals, typically 5-15 people, meet regularly under the guidance of a trained therapist. The primary goals of group therapy are to promote emotional healing, personal growth, and improved mental health by providing a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from one another, and develop new coping strategies.
Definition and goals of group therapy
Group therapy aims to address various mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse, by fostering a sense of belonging and creating an environment where individuals feel safe and understood. The key objectives of group therapy include:
Encouraging open and honest communication
Enhancing self-awareness and understanding
Developing healthy coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills
Building social support networks and reducing isolation
Facilitating personal growth and emotional healing
The role of the therapist in group therapy sessions
In group therapy sessions, the therapist plays a crucial role in guiding the group’s process and ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all members. Some of their responsibilities include:
Establishing and maintaining group rules and boundaries
Encouraging active participation and respectful communication among group members
Introducing therapeutic techniques and exercises to address specific issues
Identifying and addressing group dynamics and conflicts
Providing feedback, insights, and guidance to help individuals gain new perspectives on their challenges
Types of group therapy
There are several types of group therapy, each designed to address specific needs and goals. The three main types are:
Psychoeducational groups: These groups focus on educating participants about specific mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance abuse. They provide information on coping strategies, treatments, and resources while offering a supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and learn from one another.
Support groups: Support groups offer a safe space for individuals dealing with similar challenges to come together and provide emotional support, understanding, and encouragement. They may be facilitated by a therapist or led by peers and often focus on specific life events or transitions, such as grief and loss, divorce, or living with chronic illness.
Therapy groups: These groups utilize various therapeutic techniques and interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to address the emotional and psychological aspects of mental health issues. Therapy groups offer a structured environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, learn new skills, and work towards personal growth and healing.
By understanding the fundamentals of group therapy, we can better appreciate its transformative power in addressing anxiety, depression, and trauma through shared experiences and collective healing.
The Benefits of Shared Experiences in Group Therapy
One of the most powerful aspects of group therapy lies in the shared experiences and connections formed among its members. By bringing together individuals who face similar challenges, group therapy offers a unique opportunity for emotional validation, trust-building, and learning from others’ experiences. Let’s explore these benefits in more detail.
Emotional validation through shared stories and experiences: In group therapy, participants have the opportunity to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others who understand and empathize with their struggles. This process of sharing can be incredibly validating, as it helps individuals realize that they are not alone in their journey. Hearing others’ stories and recognizing similarities in their experiences can provide a sense of relief, reduce feelings of shame or guilt, and foster a stronger connection with fellow group members.
Building trust and creating a safe space for healing: Trust is an essential component of any therapeutic relationship, and it is particularly crucial in group therapy settings. As individuals begin to open up and share their vulnerabilities with one another, a sense of trust and camaraderie develops within the group. The therapist plays a vital role in establishing and maintaining this trust by setting clear boundaries, ensuring confidentiality, and fostering a non-judgmental and respectful atmosphere. When group members feel safe and supported, they are more likely to engage in honest self-disclosure, take risks, and work towards meaningful change and healing.
Learning from others’ coping mechanisms and strategies: Group therapy provides a unique opportunity for individuals to learn from the experiences and insights of others facing similar challenges. As group members share their personal stories, coping mechanisms, and strategies for managing anxiety, depression, or trauma, participants can gain valuable knowledge and inspiration. This collective wisdom allows individuals to explore new approaches, build on their existing strengths, and develop a toolbox of skills to better navigate their mental health journey.
Techniques Used in Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma Group Therapy
Group therapy sessions often incorporate a variety of evidence-based techniques and interventions to address the specific needs of individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. By employing these therapeutic approaches, group therapy can help participants develop new skills, challenge unhealthy thought patterns, and foster emotional healing. Let’s examine some of the most commonly used techniques in group therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely-used and well-researched approach that focuses on identifying and modifying unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. In group therapy settings, CBT techniques can be highly effective in helping individuals recognize distorted thinking patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and improve emotional regulation. Some common CBT techniques employed in group therapy include:
Thought challenging and cognitive restructuring: Participants learn to identify negative or irrational thoughts, evaluate their accuracy, and replace them with more balanced and realistic perspectives.
Behavioral activation: Group members are encouraged to engage in activities that promote positive emotions and reduce depressive symptoms.
Exposure exercises: Individuals with anxiety disorders may participate in gradual exposure to feared situations, helping them confront and overcome their fears in a supportive environment.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an approach that combines elements of CBT with mindfulness and acceptance practices. Originally developed for individuals with borderline personality disorder, DBT has been found to be effective in treating various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. In group therapy, DBT skills training can help participants learn to manage their emotions, cope with distress, and improve interpersonal relationships. Key DBT skills taught in group therapy include:
Mindfulness: Participants are guided to practice non-judgmental awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment.
Emotion regulation: Group members learn strategies for understanding, expressing, and managing their emotions more effectively.
Distress tolerance: Individuals develop skills to cope with difficult situations and emotions without resorting to unhealthy behaviors or avoidance.
Trauma-focused therapies, such as EMDR and exposure therapy
For individuals dealing with trauma, specialized trauma-focused therapies can be incorporated into group therapy sessions to facilitate healing and recovery. Some of these approaches include:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic memories by using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, while recalling distressing events.
Exposure therapy: This technique involves gradually exposing individuals to their traumatic memories or triggers in a controlled and supportive environment, helping them reduce anxiety, fear, and avoidance behaviors.
By utilizing these techniques in group therapy settings, individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and trauma can benefit from targeted interventions, skill-building, and emotional support, ultimately fostering a path towards healing and personal growth.
Finding the Right Group Therapy for You
With numerous group therapy options available, it’s essential to find a program that best suits your unique needs and goals. In this section, we will discuss factors to consider when choosing a group therapy program, tips for making the most of your experience, and resources for finding group therapy sessions near you.
Factors to consider when choosing a group therapy program
Therapeutic approach: Consider the specific techniques and interventions used in the group therapy program, such as CBT, DBT, or trauma-focused therapies, and whether they align with your needs and preferences.
Group size and composition: Look for a group with a comfortable size (typically 5-15 participants) and members who share similar challenges, backgrounds, or goals.
Therapist qualifications and experience: Ensure that the group is facilitated by a trained and experienced therapist specializing in your area of concern.
Confidentiality and safety: Make sure the group therapy program emphasizes confidentiality and provides a safe, supportive environment for all participants.
Schedule and location: Choose a group therapy program that fits your schedule and is conveniently located.
Tips for making the most of your group therapy experience
Be open and honest: Share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with the group to foster trust and promote emotional healing.
Actively participate: Engage in group discussions, exercises, and activities to maximize the benefits of your group therapy experience.
Listen and learn from others: Pay attention to the insights and experiences shared by fellow group members, and apply the lessons learned to your own journey.
Practice patience and self-compassion: Remember that progress takes time, and it’s essential to be patient and kind to yourself throughout the process.
Seek additional support if needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your therapist or other mental health professionals for additional guidance or resources.
Resources for finding group therapy sessions near you
Ask your primary care physician or mental health provider for recommendations.
Contact local hospitals, community mental health centers, or counseling agencies for information on available group therapy programs.
Consult online directories, such as the American Group Psychotherapy Association’s “Find a Group” tool or Psychology Today’s group therapy listings.
Utilize social media and online forums to connect with others who may have recommendations for group therapy sessions in your area.
Find A Group Therapy Group at Gemini Health
In conclusion, the power of group therapy in healing anxiety, depression, and trauma cannot be overstated. By creating a supportive and understanding environment, group therapy allows individuals to share their experiences, learn from one another, and develop valuable coping skills. We encourage those struggling with mental health issues to seek help and embrace the benefits of shared experiences in group therapy settings.
Remember, the ongoing journey towards mental health and personal growth is a collective effort, and by participating in group therapy, you are taking a crucial step towards healing and self-discovery.
Gemini Health, located in Elkridge, Maryland, offers a range of group therapy programs designed to support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse. Through their compassionate and evidence-based approach, Gemini Health aims to provide a safe and supportive environment where participants can work towards healing and personal growth.
Drug abuse counselors play an essential role in the community by supporting individuals while they work towards recovery from addiction and other mental health issues that may be present.
Navigating the complexity of these underlying issues can be overwhelming, so in this blog we’ll shed light on the 12 core functions of substance abuse counseling, providing information that can help you or a loved one make an informed decision concerning the best course of action.
Join us as we go over the fundamentals of successful recovery – we’re here to help you through your journey!
The 12 Core Functions Substance Abuse Counseling Provides:
The 12 core functions that substance abuse counseling provides helps ensure the client is given the best chance of building healthier lifestyles and relationships.
These core functions include:
Screening
Intake
Orientation
Assessment
Treatment planning
Case management
Counseling
Patient education
Crisis intervention
Referral
Record-keeping and reporting
Cross-consultation
When clients use these services they can be sure they will have knowledgeable care and support on their journey towards achieving sobriety. Let’s go a bit more in depth, shall we?
During this stage, counselors assess whether a patient is suitable for treatment, and can determine if a patient is unlikely to benefit from certain types of care due to any conditions that need specialized attention.
Patient screening helps counselors identify existing behavioral problems and mental health issues that could interfere with their treatment plan. It also allows counselors to recognize early warning signs so they can take proactive steps towards helping patients manage their condition more effectively, seek appropriate referrals, or even provide additional resources.
As such, patient screening plays an integral role in providing effective substance abuse counseling services.
Patient Intake:
Patient intake is another vital component of the substance abuse counseling process and one of the 12 core functions.
This step involves gathering information about the patient, like medical/mental health history, current lifestyle habits, and personal goals.
It’s also an opportunity for the counselor and patient to form a more concentrated bond as they discuss what led the patient to pursue treatment.
During patient intake, counselors must pay very close attention to recognize the true cause(s) of the problem and identify any underlying issues that may have contributed to it.
A thorough patient intake can help ensure that appropriate treatment is provided to address all aspects of a client’s needs in their journey towards recovery.
Patient Orientation:
Patient orientation is an essential stage in the process of substance abuse counseling, during which counselors and patients establish a meaningful relationship.
In this stage, the counselor acts as a bridge for the patient by providing education about their recovery, setting treatment goals that prioritize success and creating an environment of encouragement.
This is beneficial to both parties, as it helps build mutual trust and gives counselors insight into what has previously been difficult for them to express. It also enables counselors to better understand why certain treatment elements are necessary for a successful recovery.
Finally, patient orientation is key in developing an atmosphere of open communication and providing relapse prevention advice within a supportive therapeutic context. All in all, this stage serves as a critical foundation on which all other counseling functions will be built upon.
Patient Assessment:
During the patient assessment stage of substance abuse counseling, the counselor engages in conversations and activities with the patient, collects various types of data from different sources, evaluates the patient’s life situation, and develops treatment plans.
The purpose of this stage is to gain an understanding of where the patient is in terms of their condition, struggles, experiences, long-term goals, relationships, family structure and dynamics.
The therapist assesses what support systems are in place for the patient and determines if any assistance is needed in areas such as discharge planning upon completion of treatment.
Ultimately, effective assessment is an integral part of ensuring successful substance abuse counseling treatment plans and successful outcomes for patients.
Treatment Planning:
Treatment planning is an important step in substance abuse counseling, as it is a roadmap used to guide the client through their journey of recovery.
During this stage, the counselor and client will collaboratively develop goals together and decide on an appropriate strategy to achieve those goals.
It is also a time for both parties to assess the various treatment modalities for substance abuse that are available for support. Treatment plans should be tailored to each individual and adapted when necessary as the client progresses through their recovery process.
It is important that specific assistance and services are delivered efficiently, so having a clear treatment plan can ensure positive outcomes from substance abuse counseling.
Case Management:
Case management involves making referrals to other treatment centers, advocating for the client during treatment applications, monitoring the progress made by clients while they are in treatments, and continually assessing their individual needs.
Case managers will also assist their clients in coming up with an individual plan of action that best suits their personal recovery goals.
This stage means being responsible for the effectiveness of the strategies being used to help meet the needs of patients.
In this way, case managers provide advocacy and support assistance throughout the entire process. It is very important as it ensures that all parts necessary for quality care are coordinated together so that everyone can be supported effectively on their journey toward recovery.
Counseling:
This next function involves the counselor and client working closely together by creating goals and plans to help the client recover.
Counselors can provide resources and support, role-play scenarios, give feedback and advice, or keep them motivated during this stage.
Effective counseling makes a remarkable difference in the recovery process by providing direction for clients, helping them maintain positive behaviors, guiding them through challenging moments and allowing for self-reflection.
Furthermore, counselors help build strong relationships of trust between client and counselor, which is important when discussing difficult topics related to addiction.
Ultimately, counseling can offer the keys to success in overcoming addiction and is an essential component when it comes to substance abuse treatment.
Patient Education:
During this stage, counselors engage with patients by educating them on topics related to their situation and provide resources and information to help them stay abstinent during treatment.
This can include teaching important facts about the substance being abused and its effects, providing advice on how to cope with the cravings for substances and identifying risky situations which can be avoided, as well as teaching strategies for responding when those situations arise.
Patient education not only introduces greater awareness of different aspects of addiction and relapse prevention but also encourages more autonomy within the patient so they may better navigate their recovery process.
Crisis Intervention:
Crisis intervention is a very crucial part of substance abuse counseling. During crisis intervention, counselors may need to prevent or address:
Institutionalization
Suicide attempts, or
Physical danger from either the client or someone else involved in the situation.
The counselor must assess the severity of the crisis and take immediate steps to ensure safety for all involved.
Depending on the crisis issue at hand, these steps might include listening and providing support and guidance, making referrals for safety planning or treatment services, de-escalating an emotionally-charged situation with mediation techniques, arranging transportation to appropriate medical care and treatment facilities, performing an assessment related to trauma history and relapse triggers.
The goal is always to provide the client with a sense of calmness, understanding and compassion so they can discuss their issues more openly.
Referral:
The tenth core function of substance abuse counseling is referral. Referral is an important part of the recovery process because it helps connect individuals struggling with substance abuse to other services and resources they may need.
During this stage, counselors encourage their clients to access these services, such as:
Social service agencies
Employment support programs
Health care providers, and others.
Referrals also provide information on local self-help group meetings and 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
Additionally, the counselor might suggest treatment options outside their scope of expertise such as residential or inpatient programs. With this step, counselors can ensure that all the client’s needs are addressed and that they have a comprehensive plan for long-term sobriety.
Record-Keeping and Reporting:
An important part of this stage is that the drug abuse counselor must keep detailed, accurate records of every session by tracking progress, goals, and approach changes.
It is also necessary to record any other information related to each client’s treatment in order to provide a clear picture of the entire process.
By keeping these records well organized and filed away securely, counselors can easily assess progress for each individual or group over time – something which is incredibly beneficial for planning future sessions and assessing outcomes from completed ones.
In short, record keeping and recording not only ensures understandable communication between members undergoing treatment, but it also acts as an effective way to assess how much a given approach helps clients recover.
Cross-Consultation:
Cross-consultation is the twelfth and final core function of substance abuse counseling.
This stage involves the counselor connecting the client to additional medical, psychological, social, and spiritual resources as needed.
The counselor meets with different professionals and works together with them to create a plan customized for the individual’s specific needs.
The experts involved in this process could include doctors, mental health workers, rehabilitation counselors, welfare services agents, and spiritual leaders such as clergy or support groups. Cross-consultation is an essential stage for creating lasting sobriety as it ensures that all of the individual’s complex medical and emotional issues are addressed holistically.
Focus on the smiling man, talking with people of all ages, during the group therapy.
Substance Abuse Counseling Could Save Your Life:
So, what do effective treatment options provide? They can offer someone the personalized guidance, support groups, and other resources necessary to confront their issues with substance abuse and work towards leading a healthier life.
Each step helps to create an environment of understanding and compassion so that patients can receive positive care and treatment.
Collectively, the 12 core functions make up a complete system designed to provide those in need with adequate support that can lead to sobriety and lasting recovery. It’s essential that everyone battling addiction remembers they do not have to face it alone.
For any readers residing in Maryland or out-of-state alike, we urge you to reach out for help today at Gemini Health (301) 363-1063 or search “substance abuse counseling near me” if you need support in overcoming an addiction problem.
If you’re considering therapy, the sheer amount of options can be overwhelming.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, understanding the different types of therapy available can help you decide which type might be right for you.
Let’s take a look at three popular types of therapy: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Who Should Seek Therapy?
Everyone can reap the benefits from therapy at one point or another.
Therapy can have incredible advantages for people from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances. Everyone from busy corporate executives, to stay-at-home parents, to teenagers, to retired adults have found therapy to be an invaluable method of self-improvement.
Not only this, but any person who is struggling with a mental health issue – including depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorder or any other – could find great relief from speaking with a licensed therapist.
Additionally, those seeking increased self-esteem or general emotional support could also benefit from the counseling process.
Ultimately, it’s important that everyone understands they don’t need to face issues alone; professional help is available and is often life changing.
Female hand trying to connect a missing jigsaw puzzle of human brain
ACT vs CBT vs DBT:
There’s no question about it: mental health is extremely important and everyone should strive to maintain good mental health.
To do this, there are three different types of therapies that may be useful for different needs.
These include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Although all three therapies focus on increasing self-awareness and teaching skills to create a life worth living, they approach the process in different ways.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):
ACT is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on increasing psychological flexibility by helping people accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment or trying to change them. This allows them to move forward with their lives in line with their values, even if they have unpleasant thoughts or feelings.
What Strategies Are Used In ACT?
Acceptance-Based Coping: This strategy encourages individuals to acknowledge difficult situations and emotions but strive not to be controlled by them.
Cognitive Defusion: Another common technique is cognitive defusion which helps people develop psychological distance from their thoughts and allow themselves to tolerate distress instead of trying to control it.
Behavior Change Strategies: ACT practitioners often use behavior change strategies such as identifying a value-guided plan with the aim of taking action while still maintaining an overall sense of wellbeing.
Meta-Awareness: This strategy helps increase self-observation and reflection in order to recognize patterns in thoughts or behavior that might be harmful or disruptive.
By utilizing these four strategies along with other techniques tailored to each individual’s needs, ACT can be highly effective in promoting meaningful lifestyle changes while increasing resilience and resilience.
Who Is Best Fit For ACT?
People best-suited for ACT therapy are those that want to break out of negative thought patterns, address unhealthy personal habits such as avoidance, look inwards at self-defeating behavior patterns, and take meaningful steps toward making positive life changes.
This type of therapy is helpful in treating mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD and substance abuse.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
CBT is a form of talk therapy that focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and changing them into more positive ones. Unlike ACT, CBT focuses on actively challenging these negative thoughts in order to help patients reframe situations in healthier ways.
It also helps patients learn coping skills and problem solving strategies that can be used in future situations.
What Strategies Are Used In CBT?
Cognitive Restructuring/Reframing: Cognitive restructuring involves actively analyzing negative and irrational thought patterns, challenging them and then replacing them with more rational thoughts. Reframing involves looking at a situation from a different perspective to identify new opportunities for growth or explore alternative possibilities.
Guided Discovery: This technique involves asking questions that guide the client in exploring the impacts of self-talk and underlying beliefs on their behavior and mood. Through this process of uncovering meaning, clients are enabled to better understand themselves and resolve difficult mental health issues.
Journaling: This method of CBT means taking the time to properly and thoroughly record experiences and thoughts on paper, allowing individuals to gain insight into their behavior patterns, assess triggers for issues they are facing, and track progress over time. Journaling focuses on the identification and evaluation of thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs and how they translate into behaviors. As such, an individual can look back at their writings as a way to understand why certain reactions occur in certain circumstances.
Who Is Best Fit For CBT?
CBT is an excellent choice for individuals who value structure, are motivated to make meaningful changes that stick, and are open to self-reflection and experimentation. Additionally, practical tools developed through CBT can be particularly beneficial for those trying to cope with ongoing life stressors such as relationship problems or work stress.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT):
What does dbt stand for? DBT focuses on helping patients learn skills related to emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance. Components of dialectical behavior therapy emphasize the importance of balancing acceptance with change in order to effectively manage difficult emotions without getting overwhelmed by them or engaging in self-destructive behaviors.
What Strategies Are Used In DBT?
Strategies are based on the “four stages of dialectical behavior therapy” that encourage the patient to explore various emotional states and find healthy ways to cope with distress and other distressing symptoms.
These stages are:
Mindfulness: In the first stage, the focus is on being present in the moment while accepting oneself with unconditional positive regard and validating experiences as they occur. This helps to reduce rumination and create healthier coping strategies for intense emotions. Mindfulness involves paying attention to each experience without judgment or criticism and encourages living in the “here and now”.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: During this phase, participants build strong interpersonal skills such as engaging in active listening, respecting boundaries, and navigating relationships due to the individualized attention of their therapist. Additionally, patients learn how to present interests effectively while still respecting the other person’s opinion or point of view. This stage was particularly developed for those who struggle with maintaining close relationships; learning how to apply interpersonal effectiveness skills can help free individuals from damaging patterns of behavior influenced by anxious feelings.
Emotion Regulation: In this stage, individuals learn to recognize and label their own emotions through creating a “mindfulness skill set” that includes rapid emotion identification and conscious choice making. Patients are taught how to accept and validate their own emotional experiences as well as those of others, while also tailoring individualized coping strategies to challenging situations.
Distress Tolerance: As part of distress tolerance, individuals are encouraged to recognize and tolerate pain in difficult situations without being overwhelmed by strong urges to escape or avoid them. Techniques used for distress tolerance include logical problem solving, accepting reality, learning perspective, improving one’s mood by focusing on other activities, creating self-soothing plans and using self-distraction tactics.
Who Is Best Fit For DBT?
DBT can be beneficial for people looking to better manage their emotions, regulate their behaviors, and improve communication between themselves and others.
It’s an especially ideal treatment option for those dealing with issues such as mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, or aggressive behavior; however, it can also aid those who suffer from anxiety, intense experiences of shame or guilt, difficulty managing stress, and some eating disorders.
In addition, people struggling with substance abuse and addiction have shown success integrating dialectical behavior therapy with the twelve-steps. This combination of therapies ensures that people achieve long-term recovery through a balance of self-acceptance and change.
Conclusion:
All three types of therapies have been proven effective for treating many common mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which type of therapy would be most beneficial for you is by talking with your therapist about your specific needs and goals for treatment so they can determine which type would be most helpful for you based on your individual needs.
Whatever type of therapy you choose though, remember that it takes time—but it will be worth it! With dedication and consistency you’ll see results soon enough!
If you struggle with depression, you’re already quite aware of the significant impact it plays on your life.
Many people with depression suffer for years in silence before ever making the decision to seek help. If you’re one of these people, you’re not alone.
Maybe you thought your depression would get better over time. Or, perhaps you couldn’t fit treatment into your financial budget in the past. Whatever the reason, taking the initiative to get help for your major depression is a monumental decision, and you should be proud.
Once you begin seeking treatment you might find you’re quickly overwhelmed by the endless techniques, styles, and information out there. How do you know what is going to work for you?
Really, what is the therapy for depression? If you’re here to find the best treatments for major depressive disorder, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s talk about it.
Female hand trying to connect a missing jigsaw puzzle of human brain on gray background. Creative idea for solving problem, memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease concept. Mental health care.
What Is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major depressive disorder, otherwise known as clinical depression is a severe mood disorder in which an individual has persistent low moods, loss of interest in everyday activities, and other various emotional and physical symptoms. This condition affects the way a person thinks, lives, and behaves.
Unlike persistent depressive disorder, in which a person experiences chronic, less severe low moods with little to no relief, those with major depressive disorder have periods in which they feel better.
During these breaks, they may return to their normal baseline mood. However, it’s often only a matter of time before another depressive episode kicks in.
Symptoms Of Major Depressive Disorder Include:
• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
• Feeling numb or disconnected
• Anger, irritability, or frustration
• Sleeping problems
• Changes in appetite
• An inability to feel pleasure
Is There a Cure For Depression?
There is currently no cure for depression, as to cure something ensures it will never come around again. Many people that struggle with depression find that it’s rarely a one-time experience.
Don’t let this get you down. There are various treatments for depression that have proven to be successful in helping others live full, happy lives.
While some people choose medication, it’s always encouraged to use anti-depressants alongside other treatment options to ensure a full recovery.
How To Treat Severe Depression:
Let’s talk about three of the best ways to treat major depressive disorder without risking any harmful side effects of medication. Suffering from depression can feel like an isolating black hole, however, these treatments are here to free you from the chains of hopelessness and put you back on your feet again.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or, CBT is known as the gold standard of treatment in psychology. Not only is it incredibly versatile, and useful in hundreds of situations, its effectiveness has been proven time and time again.
CBT is a form of talk therapy that focuses on your moods and thoughts while targeting actions and behaviors that arise from these thinking patterns. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of talk therapy. As an individual speaks with their therapist about real-time stressors, a licensed mental health professional will be able to spot any distorted or unhealthy thoughts related to the situation that may be making their depression worse.
After these thoughts are identified, a client and therapist will work together to redirect them into healthier, more beneficial thinking patterns.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for major depressive disorder has been proven to help relieve symptoms of depression such as sadness, emptiness, and anxiety.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation:
Another wonderful medication-free option for treating depression is transcranial magnetic stimulation, or, TMS.
While the term may sound daunting, TMS is a painless, non-invasive procedure.
At Gemini TMS, a cap is placed over an individual’s head while short, repetitive magnetic pulses are sent throughout the brain to target areas associated with depression and depressive symptoms. While relief is often felt early on, multiple sessions are recommended to ensure stimulation in areas of the brain with decreased activity.
TMS is an effective method of treatment for patients that have tried medication without success, or with negative side effects, in the past. Unlike anti-depressants, transcranial magnetic stimulation can directly impact areas of the brain medication can’t.
Stellate Ganglion Blocks:
Up-and-coming research has indicated the use of stellate ganglion blocks as an effective form of treatment in patients with depression, PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain.
When we experience trauma, our bodies are forced into a constant state of fight or flight. This heightened response is detrimental to our emotional and physical health.
When our brains can rest, they can recover. SGB is a minimally invasive procedure with little to no side effects. In addition, relief can be felt in as little as 30 minutes!
So, What is The Best Therapy For Major Depressive Disorder?
Every person’s experience with depression is unique. There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution for major depressive disorder. Some people use medication and learn how to cope with the side effects, while others seek other avenues.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a great option for those who want to try a form of talk therapy in order to learn healthier ways of coping with depressive thoughts.
TMS can greatly benefit those who have had bad experiences with anti-depressants in the past or those who choose to manage their depression medication free.
Stellate ganglion blocks can be effective for individuals struggling with more than just their depression, or for those that can’t engage in other methods of treatment.
It may take some time to learn what therapy is best for you. No matter what your situation may be, there are many mental health professionals that dedicate their lives to helping someone with major depressive disorder, just like you.
For years, the go-to treatment for anxiety disorders was medication. But what if there was a way to train your brain to think differently about anxiety. That’s where cognitive behavioral therapy comes in.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a type of therapy that focuses on changing the way you think about anxiety. This, in turn, can change the way you feel and behave. CBT is different from other types of therapies because it is usually shorter-term and more focused on problem-solving.
Types of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:
There are different types of CBT, but they all share the same goal: to change the way you think about anxiety. Some of the most common types of CBT are:
• Exposure therapy: This type of therapy helps you face your fears head-on. With exposure therapy, you’ll gradually work up to facing your fear in real life. For example, if you’re afraid of flying, exposure therapy might involve watching videos about flying, looking at pictures of airplanes, or even going to the airport and watching planes take off and land.
• Cognitive restructuring: This type of therapy helps you identify and challenge negative thinking patterns. Once you’re able to identify these patterns, you can start to change them.
• Relaxation and stress management: This type of therapy teaches you how to relax your mind and body when you’re feeling anxious. Relaxation techniques might include deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation (PMR).
Biofeedback Therapy For Anxiety:
Biofeedback therapy is a form of treatment that uses sensors to monitor your body’s physiological response to stressors.
The aim of biofeedback therapy is to help you become more aware of your body’s natural stress response so that you can learn to control it. Biofeedback therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
Biofeedback therapy usually involves two different types of sensors: one to measure your heart rate and one to measure your skin conductance. The sensors are connected to a machine that displays your physiological data in real time. As you relax, you’ll see your heart rate slow down and your skin conductance decrease.
During the session, the therapist will guide you through a series of relaxation exercises. As you practice relaxing, you’ll begin to associate the physical sensations of relaxation with the exercises themselves. Over time, this will help you learn to control your body’s stress response so that you can manage your anxiety outside of the therapy sessions.
Female hand trying to connect a missing jigsaw puzzle of human brain on gray background. Creative idea for solving problem, memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease concept. Mental health care.
Rapid Resolution Therapy For Anxiety:
Rapid resolution therapy (RRT) is a newer type of therapy that is designed to help you resolve the underlying issues that are causing your anxiety. While RRT is a brief treatment, usually lasting only 3-5 sessions, it has been shown to be very effective in treating anxiety disorders.
The first step in RRT is to identify the core beliefs that are causing your anxiety. Once these beliefs have been identified, the therapist will work with you to challenge and reframe them.
One of the key features of RRT is that it uses a number of techniques to help you resolve your anxiety. These techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnosis, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Occupational Therapy For Anxiety Disorders:
Occupational therapy (OT) is a type of therapy that helps you learn new skills and find new ways to cope with your anxiety symptoms. OT can help you manage your anxiety by teaching you how to better handle stressful situations, how to relax, and how to take care of yourself both mentally and physically.
For people with anxiety disorders, occupational therapy can help them learn how to manage their symptoms and participate in the activities they love without letting their anxiety take over.
Here are a few ways that occupational therapy can help people with anxiety disorders:
1. Identifying Triggers
One of the first things an occupational therapist will do is help you identify what triggers your anxiety. Once you know what your triggers are, you can start to develop a plan for how to deal with them.
2. Developing Coping Skills
Another way that occupational therapists can help people with anxiety disorders is by teaching them coping skills. Coping skills are techniques that can help you manage your anxiety at the moment. Some common coping skills include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery.
3. Practicing Relaxation Techniques
In addition to teaching you coping skills, your occupational therapist can also teach you relaxation techniques that can help reduce your overall anxiety levels. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, Tai Chi, and meditation can all be helpful in managing anxiety disorders.
4. Improving Sleep Habits: If you have an anxiety disorder, chances are good that you also have trouble sleeping. This is because anxiety can cause racing thoughts and make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. An occupational therapist can work with you on developing better sleep habits and teach you relaxation techniques that can help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Anxiety: The Most Common Mental Illness In America
If you’re struggling with anxiety that feels out of your control, know that you’re not alone—anxiety disorders are very common. Thankfully there are many effective treatments available that can help you manage your symptoms and live a healthy, happy life.
If you think you may have an anxiety disorder, talk to your doctor, a mental health professional, or give us a call at 301-363-1063 to get started on your road to recovery today.
Do you ever feel like you’re the only one struggling? Depression tends to have that effect. Many people struggling with depression feel that they must suffer alone, but this isn’t true Group therapy for depression has helped thousands of people get much needed support and reduces the effects of isolation that often plague those with depression.
How Does Therapy Help Treat Depression?
Someone seeks therapy for their depression typically because they feel stuck and don’t know the way forward. With therapy, you have a place to explore and discover the underlying issues that keep you stuck and find healthy ways to cope. Therapy helps you move from a place of hopelessness to a place of confidence and purpose. Therapy comes in every shape and size from individual, to group, to family or couple’s therapy.
What To Expect in Group Therapy
In a group of roughly 5-15 people, you will work with a psychologist who leads and guides the group. In group therapy for depression, the psychologist of the group will work with the group to build coping skills that help with depression and provide other tools and insights that work to improve the debilitating symptoms of depression. There are a wide range of topics that can be covered in a group therapy session.
Coping skills
Relationship and Social skills
Setting boundaries
Building self-esteem and confidence
Overcoming fears
Why Choose Group Therapy?
Social support and interaction are important for people struggling with depression. Depression is isolating and stigmatizing, leaving people with depression feeling even worse. There are tons of ways you can benefit from group therapy.
Fight Isolation
Depression can make it difficult to socialize, and the effects of isolation irritate symptoms of depression and make things worse. When you self-isolate, you start to feel like you’re the only one fighting this painful battle. Through group support, you will find that your group members feel similarly, and helps to normalize suffering.
Therapy in a group can be a great option if you struggle with feeling connected to the outside world. Group therapy is a healthy container for creating social connections and ultimately helps you feel less alone in your struggles.
Accountability
Sometimes it takes a village. If you’re someone who performs better with social pressure, group therapy could be the right environment for you. In group therapy, you are surrounded by people who are also there to achieve their goals. You have a whole room of people that you will feel accountable to. If you struggle to hold yourself accountable, which is normal with depression, being accountable to a group will help you stay focused on recovery.
Improve Confidence
Group therapy doesn’t just provide a support system, it’s also an enriching experience for those who have issues with self-esteem. It’s especially helpful to experience someone with depression getting better. When someone in the group is able to share a personal success, it helps prove to you what is possible for your health. This encouraging environment leaves you more confident in your own abilities to heal and cope with depression.
Supportive Environment
Everyone in a support group is there for the same reason – to get better and beat depression. In group therapy for depression, you have a group of people willing to be honest and open with you as you sort out your emotions.
You will also learn a lot through the stories you hear from other group members and what they struggle with. Exposure to struggles from other people helps you understand your own struggles better. All of these factors make group therapy a supportive environment for your recovery.
Gain Multiple Perspectives
Not only will you get to work with a psychologist, but you get to work with people who are struggling just like you. The stories you hear in group therapy will help you on your own journey and get validation in how you feel. Members of your group will also get to help you with your issues by offering their own unique perspective. This is often an eye opening experience for those new to group therapy. The collaborative aspect of group therapy will help you think clearer and offers a new way of seeing things.
What Makes Group Therapy Successful?
With the right leader and a group of people who are dedicated to healing, group therapy can be an effective way to fight depression. A successful group is aware of the ground rules, understands the objectives, and is on the same page about what therapy will look like within group sessions. There are a few key qualities of group therapy that will bring the best results.
Everyone is as honest as possible
Topics discussed in session remain confidential
Concerns and questions are immediately addressed
Group members engage with each other in a respectful manner
Fun and vulnerability are encouraged but not forced
When To Seek Group Therapy
If you have experienced symptoms of depression for a prolonged period of time and haven’t seen improvement, it’s time to seek support. Someone people who have tried individual therapy may also benefit from trying group therapy. If you struggle most with the effects of isolation, group therapy can be beneficial to your mental health and fight feelings of loneliness that often come with depression.
Possible Disadvantages of Group Therapy
While many people find success with group therapy, it’s not for everyone. If you have severe social phobia, working within a group may hold you back from experiencing the full benefits that group therapy has to offer. Some patients may find it intimidating and have a hard time being vulnerable.
Group therapy can also be difficult for those with severe depression, because it requires being able to engage with an entire room of people. If these are not concerns for you, group therapy can still be an option with many benefits.
Group Therapy Alternatives
Some people don’t find success through group therapy but still need help. There are complementary and alternative therapies that provide relief to the many people who suffer from depression. Always talk with your doctor about your issues and concerns so they can provide you with the most optimized treatment plan.
Individual Therapy
If group therapy is too overwhelming for you, individual therapy with a psychologist is a better option. Individual therapy will provide an environment that feels safer to be vulnerable and open with your therapist about your fears and issues. Some people use individual and group therapy to get the unique benefits that both therapies provide.
TMS Therapy
If you don’t like the idea of medication and fail to find what you need with talk therapy, TMS is an alternative therapy for depression that is effective and safe. Through the use of magnetic pulses, TMS stimulates the areas of the brain responsible for depression. This alternative therapy is FDA approved to treat depression
Creative Therapy
Using creative therapies like art and music have been shown to increase feelings of wellbeing and decrease symptoms of depression for many. You can talk with your therapist about the types of creative therapy that will work for you. Creative therapy is an individual experience, so what works well for one person may induce anxiety for another. There are many creative outlets to choose from that can provide therapeutic benefits to the depressed mind.
Poetry
Dance
Music
Painting
Sculpting
Yoga
Meditation
We Have Therapy Options!
Everyone has different needs for their mental health. We are an anxiety and depression therapy center with a mission to provide patients with medical services for every aspect of their health. Whether you’re seeking individual or group therapy, or need help with pain management, we strive to provide you with a personalized care experience. Reach out to us at (301) 363-1063 if you have any questions or want to schedule a consultation!
Depression continues to rise each year, affecting approximately 1 in 4 Americans. As one of the most common mental health disorders worldwide, the options for treatment have come a long way. Antidepressants are the leading drug used to treat and minimize symptoms of depression.
While antidepressants help thousands of people cope with depression and improve their life, those with co-occurring disorders like addiction can run into problems with this type of therapy. Some people seek treatments for depression with similar effects of antidepressants, without the negative side effects and risk of dependence.
There are other reasons that people seek alternatives to antidepressants, like treatment-resistant depression. Some patients may look for something in addition to medication. Either way – if you’re seeking safe alternatives to antidepressants for depression, there are many options to choose from.
What do Antidepressants do for Depression?
Antidepressants are one of the most common ways that clinical depression is treated and are commonly used to treat other mental health disorders like anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Depression is characterized by decreased activity in certain areas of the brain that affect mood, hormone regulation, and dealing with stress. These areas include the hippocampus, amygdala, and the prefrontal cortex.
Antidepressant medication is used to increase activity in these previously mentioned regions of the brain. This increased activity is known to improve symptoms of depression like low mood and suppressed appetite. As good as this sounds, antidepressants can sometimes come with many side effects that are unpleasant like apathy, weight gain, and fatigue.
Lifestyle Factors That Affect Risk of Depression
First and foremost, there are numerous lifestyle factors that can affect symptoms of depression. Leading a healthy lifestyle and taking preventative measures for your health will increase your chances of avoiding or minimizing the plague of depression. Many studies point to the fact that poor lifestyle factors have strong links to mental illness, and healthy factors provide antidepressant qualities. Below are a few ways your lifestyle can support better mental health.
Regular Exercise
If physical inactivity leads to depression, then the opposite is true. Exercise is a natural antidepressant. Physical activity releases natural happy chemicals that support mood regulation. For best results, it’s important to get regular exercise of at least 30 minutes 3 to 5 days a week.
Consistent Sleep Schedule
Chronic sleep deprivation and poor sleep habits can lead to mental health problems like depression and makes existing problems worse. Your sleep is an imperative part of your wellness and most areas of health require quality sleep. Keeping a regular sleep schedule helps to avoid sleep problems and helps regulate your sleep cycles for optimal results.
Balanced Diet
Food is another pillar of wellness that contributes to your mental health. Sugar and processed foods increase inflammation in the body and worsen symptoms of depression. Lacking a diet in essential nutrients also contributes to poor mental health. Ensuring that your diet is rich with omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin D, and other important nutrients will help increase your chances of avoiding depression.
Exposure to Sunlight
Lack of vitamin D not only affects your physical health but your mental health too. Sunlight helps naturally produce vitamin D and increases the release of serotonin, known for regulating mood and increasing focus.
Mindfulness and Relaxation
Depressive thoughts and rumination contribute to the negative feelings that come with depression. Mindfulness is a safe and healthy alternative to antidepressants. Practicing mindfulness can be used to reduce brain fog, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. You can use techniques like breathwork, meditation, and body-scanning to increase mindfulness.
Limit Daily Screen Time
While technology is fairly new, there are definite links to screen time and depression. Those who spend more time on screens are more likely to be depressed. Excessive screen time also leads to other problems that contribute to depression, like sleep dysregulation and brain fog. Regulating your screen time can help stave off symptoms of depression.
Complementary and Alternative Options to Antidepressants
If you’ve had a negative experience with antidepressants or simply desire an alternative, there are a number of safe and effective treatment options to choose from. The options presented below can be taken ahead of choosing antidepressant medication as well. Some patients with more severe depression may need more than one treatment. These therapies and treatments are sometimes combined with antidepressants to maximize treatment.
TMS Therapy
If you have treatment resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could be an effective option for you. TMS is a drug free and safe alternative to antidepressants that is considered effective with minimal side effects. TMS therapy provides relief from severe symptoms of depression using short pulses of magnetic energy to stimulate nerve cells in the brain.
This noninvasive procedure requires a round of 30-36 treatment sessions but the treatment has a high success rate for depression. TMS involves magnetic pulses that stimulate nerve cells in areas of the brain that affects depression. We partner with Gemini TMS to provide you with the most effective treatment for your needs using an individualized treatment plan. Many patients say they feel like a different person after finishing TMS therapy.
Stellate Ganglion Block Injections
SGB injections can be a great option if you have depression along with anxiety and PTSD. SGB injections are the use of local anesthesia to disrupt the nerves that are hyperactive during a major depressive episode. These hyperactive nerves keep the body in a perpetual state of stress.
Blocking the nerve signals responsible for depression allows the brain to reset. Many people report feeling an immediate sense of calm after an SGB injection. The good news is that SGB is low risk aside from initial bruising and discomfort. The better news is that SGB injections have lasting effects and patients often feel relief for a few months and even up to a few years.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
With the help of a therapist, cognitive behavior therapy is a highly successful talk therapy that aims to change the way you think. Often combined with medication, CBT is used to identify unhelpful thought processes and challenge them.
CBT may require “homework” that is to be completed outside of sessions. While this requires a lot of effort, it is considered very effective if you are willing to put in the work. CBT is popular amongst therapists and known for treating various mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
IV Ketamine
Ketamine is becoming a revolutionary treatment for mental health conditions like depression. Intravenous Ketamine infusions consist of administering ketamine through an IV. Ketamine is an anesthetic that activates the neurotransmitter in the brain that is responsible for mood regulation. Ketamine works to repair synapses and effectively rewires the brain.
Popularly used to treat conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, ketamine is a great option in alternative to antidepressants. .
Lithium
Often taken in tandem with antidepressants, lithium has long been used to help with symptoms of depression. Lithium is a naturally occurring organic element that acts as a mood stabilizer by increasing certain chemicals in the brain. Lithium also helps reduce the frequency and severity of depressive episodes and reduces risk of suicide.
Neurofeedback
Also known as EEG biofeedback, neurofeedback is a medication-free approach to treating mental health conditions. Neurofeedback works by using sensors to record brainwave activity. A program then analyzes your brain activity and provides positive reinforcement when the brain meets certain goals.
Through the use of positive reinforcement, this process teaches the brain to form healthier habits and more balanced thoughts. You can think of this training like exercise for the brain. Neurofeedback may be an option for treatment resistant depression, and the risk factors are significantly low, making it a safe alternative to antidepressants.
Acupuncture
A thousand-year-old practice, acupuncture is a holistic procedure that uses needles that are placed into specific parts of the skin to release chemicals and neurotransmitters. These chemicals and neurotransmitters are known to help with levels of stress and anxiety by helping with mood regulation and boosting feelings of wellbeing.
Looking for options?
Gemini Health offers therapy services for depression and anxiety and can provide you with the alternatives you’re looking for. Our dedicated team of mental health professionals offering individual and group therapy and TMS therapy. Avoid the negative side effects of antidepressants by reaching out to Gemini Health today. Reach out to us at (301) 363-1063 and speak with our amazing staff about scheduling an appointment!
52.9 million people suffer from a variety of mental health issues, and seeking an outpatient therapist would help to improve their mental health. The issue lies within determining whether outpatient therapy in Elkridge, Maryland, or inpatient therapy will work the best for your personal needs.
Read on now and find out the main differences between inpatient and outpatient therapy.
What is Outpatient Care?
Outpatient therapy in Mt. Airy, Maryland, is when you receive a variety of services from a treatment facility without having to stay in the facility around the clock. While you might spend a significant amount of time in group therapy in Elkridge, Maryland, you'll still go home at the end of the night.
It's best to speak in-depth with your care coordinator to find out if outpatient group therapy is going to work well for you.
What is Inpatient Care?
You should think of inpatient care as a more intensified version of outpatient care. Instead of spending time at home, you dedicate 100% of your focus and time to improving your mental health status.
Another thing to remember when you're entering inpatient care is that it will be on the more extensive end as far as costs go. While we've taken the time to detail inpatient and outpatient care for you, there are some differences you should know about.
Structure of Treatment
One of the main differences between inpatient and outpatient group therapy in Mt. Airy, Maryland is the structure of the treatment. When you're in inpatient therapy, the structure of your treatment plan is going to be more rigid.
You'll receive care around the clock, including sticking to specific meal times and rehabilitation services. When you opt for an outpatient group therapy near me, you'll find that the structure you adhere to is much more flexible in terms of what you can and can't do.
Although the structure of the therapy services is different, you can guarantee that the outline of the therapy groups you participate in remains the same.
Services Offered by the Facility
Another key difference between inpatient and outpatient services is the type of services offered. Before you begin participating in any form of therapy, you're going to have to submit to an assessment.
During the assessment, the care coordinator will collect information about you, including:
Past medical history
Current medical status
Medical condition needs
It's essential to be as honest as possible during the medical assessment because it will ensure you receive a care plan that is personalized for your needs. Another service that could be offered by the facility you seek treatment from is medication management help.
Part of improving your health and wellness is to ensure you're taking your medication as it's prescribed, even if you start to feel better. Your care coordinator will teach you about taking your medication and why it's important.
You will also tap into education sources. Sometimes the reason people don't take advantage of mental health resources is that they don't know as much as they should about mental health and how to improve theirs.
The more educated you are about mental health, the better off you'll be.
Length of Time Spent in Treatment
Different people will spend different lengths of time in treatment depending on their personal needs. It's important to consider how much help you need and discuss this with your care coordinator.
They will provide a recommendation, and from there, you can decide the length of time that works for you. It might prove even more beneficial if you don't make a decision about how much time you spend in treatment because it's about mental health progression.
If you're in a better place when the time of your stay is up, you can leave, but if you feel you need more work and time in your program, you can extend the time you'll be in treatment.
Treatment Success Rate
Why would you seek treatment if the place offering the treatment has a low success rate? Take time to review the comments left by former clients.
Past client testimonials will give you insight into what the facility does well and other areas where they'll need to make improvements. It will help you determine if the facility you're reviewing is the one for you.
Sometimes the facility will provide you with their own list of references; all you've got to do is ask for them. A facility that is being transparent and only wants to provide quality care will always be forthcoming about what they can do for their clients.
They only seek to offer the best to their clients and assist them in turning over a new leaf while taking back more control.
Medical Professionals in the Facility
When you're deciding between inpatient and outpatient therapy, one thing that may be different is the providers. In an inpatient facility, there might be a higher number and variety of providers. This is because they offer different things to the clients.
For example, you'll have access to therapists, nurses, medical doctors, and counselors that provide different services.
Difference Between an Inpatient and Outpatient Therapist
When you decide between having an inpatient and outpatient therapist, there are several key differences you need to know about. Some of the differences between the two are the services they offer and the types of the therapy provided.
Are you ready to enter a facility that will offer you the mental health services you need? Schedule a consultation with Gemini Health today.
