At some point in their lives, many people throughout the world will experience mental health issues. Currently, it is believed that approximately 350 million individuals are affected by some type of depressive disorder. Within the United States alone, 50% of the individuals that suffer with major depression aren’t seeking treatment. It’s important to note that effective treatment is available for individuals and couples affected by this mental illness and other issues.
A Brief Overview of Depression and its Treatment
While men do experience depression, it is 70% more common for women. In 2012, for instance, 6.9% of American adults had a minimum of one major depressive episode. This amounts to 16 million adults that had one or more depressive episode during that year.
The type of recommended treatment will vary based on an individual’s condition. When someone is receiving psychotherapy sessions for depression, for example, sessions will usually last between ten to 20 weeks. In some cases, antidepressants are recommended. Experts indicate that it takes approximately four to six weeks for this medication to take effect. Some therapists will encourage their clients to take antidepressants during the course of therapy and beyond.
Positive Results for Couples Therapy
Couple’s therapy has demonstrated promising results. The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists reported that their research indicated 98% of the participating couples had a positive experience. In addition to stating that they received “good” or “excellent” help, more than 97% of the survey participants stated that they received the help they needed.
The Chicago Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy conducted research on the effects of this specific therapy. Their research showed that after participating in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, 50% of the couples recovered after this treatment protocol ended. Other couples, or 70% of the total survey participants, recovered within the next three months after therapy was terminated.
Furthermore, 93% of the individuals that worked with a marriage or family therapist stated that they had more effective tools to work with their problems. They also reported improvements in their physical health and workplace functionality.
Learn More About Psychotherapy Services
If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress on a regular basis, you may want to consider scheduling a counseling session. This would also be helpful if you have experienced a previous or recent traumatic event that continues to adversely affect your daily life. Psychotherapists can also assist you with a variety of personal issues. This includes significant life changes and relationship counseling.
When couples have trust or other issues, participating in a group marriage retreat may be encouraged. In addition to attending a group marriage retreat, psychotherapists may also recommend individual and couples counseling. Whether you’re interested in individual counseling, couples counseling, and/or a group marriage retreat, once you schedule an appointment with a therapist, you’ll be taking an important step towards healing.
