The holistic treatment of major depression focuses on combining the best of Western and Eastern medical and lifestyle practices. Major depression is a serious condition associated with drug and alcohol abuse and suicide. Holistic Treatment of depression often includes medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, exercise, yoga, tai chi, massage, hypnosis and related practices.
The initial focus in the holistic treatment of major depression is to help stabilize the individual’s mood and control the flow of negative thinking. This stabilization allows for the process of psychotherapy to be most effectively applied to resolving the underlying issues of the depression and the teaching and learning of effective coping skills important in reducing the risk of future major depressive episodes.
Clients with major depression often benefit from more intensive therapy. I may meet with them twice a week for 90 minute sessions and include significant others to provide additional support and resources.
Evaluation is mixed with the teaching of coping skills almost from the beginning. Clients are given assignments to complete at home along with simple exercises to practice to develop control and provide a sense of self responsibility for their mood and outcome.
My role as therapist is complex and varies based on the needs of the client and stage of therapy. At times, I listen, seek to understand and provide support. At other times, I educate, teach and motivate. Depending on the circumstance, I may be asked and provide direct advice and suggestions.
Often times I coordinate efforts with former and existing health providers to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the person, problems and potential skills and resources.
A holistic treatment of major depression is hard work for BOTH the client and the therapist. An integrated approach, incorporating a combination of approaches provides the greatest likelihood of not only feeling better but getting better.
