Online Therapy for Depression
If you are feeling depressed, you may wonder if online therapy is right for you. There are many benefits of online therapy for depression. Finding help can often be the turning point to help you get from hopeless to hopeful.
What is depression?
We all go through various struggles, losses, or events in our life, leading us to feel down, sad, or overwhelmed. However, depression is more than just feeling down. Depression can change how you think, feel, and act in your day to day life. It causes feelings of hopelessness or despair that won’t go away, inferring with your ability to work, sleep, eat, engage with others, and enjoy life.
Although depression and depressive symptoms can look different with each person, there are some common symptoms. These symptoms are sometimes related to feeling down. But, if these symptoms are persistent and occur frequently, then this may be an indication you are experiencing depression.
- Depressed mood most of the day, almost every day.
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Withdrawing or isolating yourself from others
- Decrease or increase appetite
- Increase in restlessness or slowed movements
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Feeling hopeless, helpless, worthless or guilt (self-blame)
- Difficulty falling asleep or excessive sleeping
- Trouble concentrating
- Thoughts of death, suicide, or hurting yourself
Depression can make you feel like, “What’s the point?” If you are experiencing any of the above, online therapy may be helpful for you during this time. Since the start of the pandemic, online therapy is now more readily available than ever. In this article, we will answer questions about online therapy for depression.
What types of depression therapies are available online, and how might it differ from in-person therapy?
Typical therapies to treat depression can now be found online. Many mental health professionals have moved their sessions online to be able to meet individuals during this time. Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting currently offers both online and in-person sessions to help individuals. Psychotherapy (talking through thoughts, feelings, and experiences) can be beneficial in helping to improve your mood in these challenging times.
There are several therapies or methods that have been found effective in reducing depressive symptoms such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic therapy. Many if not all of the components of in-person therapy are available in an online setting. In fact, many individuals have found online therapy for depression even more beneficial as they are able to engage with their therapist from the comfort of their own home. The ease, flexibility, and convenience of online therapy can be beneficial for those who find it hard to get up and out on any given day.
What are some specific tips and strategies for how someone with depression can get the most out of online therapy?
Find a therapist you feel comfortable with. If in your first few sessions you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist, it is okay to ask them if they can refer you to someone else. Make sure you are honest with your therapist about how you are actually feeling. It’s hard for them to be able to truly help you if they don’t understand your experience with depression.
Be open to new perspectives. Remaining open to trying new things will go a long way in helping you find solutions that work for you. And finally, practice the strategies you learn in session daily. For those struggling with depression, it can seem like life may never get better, but don’t give up. You can find ways to feel better.
Can online therapy help if you are in crisis or having suicidal thoughts?
If you are currently in a crisis or having suicidal thoughts, reach out to National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255, call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has counselors available to you 24/7 to help people in distress.
Online therapy for depression can help you find ways to manage suicidal thoughts as they arise. When you meet with your therapist online for the first time they will create a plan with you on what you can do if you do experience a crisis or suicidal thoughts.
What are some limitations of online therapy for treating depression?
Online therapy for depression has its limitations. First, some individuals prefer and benefit from in-person interactions. For more severe mental health concerns, online therapy is typically not enough. More intensive in-person mental health services from facilities can provide more effective treatment. Some forms of therapies require in-person facilitation such as animal assisted, play, or art therapy.
However, no matter whether you choose online or in-person therapy just know that there is help available. Asking for help is the first step. Online therapy can be a great option if you are hesitant to meet someone in-person during this time.
If you would like to schedule an appointment with us for online therapy, click here https://beinspiredcc.com/online-therapy/ to find a time that works best for you.
Christy Pennison, LPC-S, is a board-certified professional counselor and owner of Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting. She provides online counseling in Louisiana as well as in-person sessions in Alexandria, LA. She meets individuals with whatever struggles they are facing to inspire hope and help individuals move forward and live fully.
