Basketball isn’t just a sport. It’s a powerful tool for improving your mental health. Whether you’re shooting hoops alone at the park, playing in a weekend league, or cheering for your favorite team, basketball can positively influence your mood, confidence, focus, and social connections. As a psychiatrist, I often encourage physical activity as part of a balanced approach to mental health. Basketball, in particular, combines physical movement, teamwork, and cognitive engagement in a way that strengthens both the body and the mind.

Exercise and the Brain: The Science Behind the Boost
When you play basketball, your heart rate increases, pumping more oxygen-rich blood to your brain. This stimulates the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which are chemicals that help regulate mood and reduce anxiety and depression. Regular physical activity like basketball has been shown in numerous studies to increase the size of the hippocampus which is the part of the brain responsible for memory and emotional regulation.

A 2018 review published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that individuals who engaged in team sports reported 43% fewer days of poor mental health compared to those who were inactive. Basketball stands out because it’s both aerobic (increasing cardiovascular health) and anaerobic (building muscle strength), providing a dual benefit for overall brain function and stress management.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Basketball is an effective stress reliever. The repetitive dribbling, running, and shooting help release built-up tension in the body, similar to mindfulness practices. The game demands focus, whether on the ball, your opponent, or the next play, which naturally pulls attention away from worries or intrusive thoughts.

When stress hormones like cortisol rise, physical activity helps bring them down. Over time, this lowers baseline anxiety levels. Even 20–30 minutes of play can lead to noticeable improvements in relaxation and mood.

Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence
Basketball promotes confidence through small, measurable achievements like making a shot, improving your free-throw percentage, or learning to play better defense. Each success gives your brain a reward in the form of dopamine, reinforcing motivation and self-worth.

For teens and adults alike, developing basketball skills fosters a sense of mastery. This sense of control over your own growth can translate to other areas of life, helping you approach challenges with more optimism and persistence. In therapeutic settings, structured sports participation has been shown to reduce symptoms of low self-esteem and even aid recovery from depression.

Social Connection and Belonging
Basketball is inherently social. Whether it’s a local league, school team, or a group of friends at the gym, playing basketball creates an opportunity for connection and belonging which are key ingredients for good mental health.

Loneliness is one of the most common contributors to depression and anxiety. Team sports counteract this by building community. Players learn trust, communication, and cooperation. Sharing victories, setbacks, and teamwork fosters emotional bonds that provide a sense of support and accountability. Studies have shown that people who engage in team activities tend to have lower rates of social isolation and a stronger sense of identity.

Improving Focus and Emotional Regulation
Basketball requires intense concentration and fast decision-making. Players must process complex information quickly like reading defenders, tracking the clock, or adjusting strategy on the fly. This kind of mental stimulation strengthens executive functioning, including attention, problem-solving, and emotional control.

In individuals with attention difficulties or ADHD, sports like basketball can help improve focus by channeling hyperactivity into structured, goal-oriented movement. The sport’s fast-paced nature trains the brain to filter distractions and sustain concentration which are skills that can carry over into school, work, and daily life.

Helping with Depression
Depression often leads to withdrawal, fatigue, and negative thinking. Basketball combats these symptoms on multiple levels. Physical activity releases endorphins, which elevate mood naturally. The sense of accomplishment from improving one’s game builds confidence while social interaction offers support and encouragement.

Research published in JAMA Psychiatry found that consistent physical activity can reduce the risk of developing depression by up to 30%. Basketball’s combination of movement, teamwork, and enjoyment makes it an ideal outlet for managing depressive symptoms and preventing relapse.

Emotional Expression and Stress Release
Basketball provides a healthy way to channel emotion. The physical intensity allows for the safe release of frustration or anger. The sport also promotes self-expression. Learning to manage emotions on the court (for instance, staying calm after a missed shot or foul) teaches emotional regulation, a critical component of long-term mental health.

Sleep and Recovery Benefits
Good mental health depends heavily on restorative sleep. Regular basketball play helps normalize sleep cycles by burning energy, reducing anxiety, and stabilizing mood-related hormones. People who exercise regularly tend to fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake feeling more refreshed.

Encouraging Healthy Habits and Routine
Routine is vital for mental stability, especially for individuals managing anxiety or depression. Scheduling basketball games or practices creates structure and predictability, which are psychologically grounding. Additionally, participating in sports often encourages healthier nutrition, hydration, and time management habits.

Basketball and Youth Mental Health
For children and teenagers, basketball offers additional benefits. It teaches emotional discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Adolescents who participate in team sports are less likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use, and tend to report higher academic motivation and self-esteem.

A 2020 study in Frontiers in Psychology noted that teens in organized sports displayed better emotional regulation and social functioning compared to those who didn’t participate. For youth struggling with anxiety or social awkwardness, the basketball court can become a place of acceptance and growth.

Basketball as a Mindfulness Practice
Many players describe basketball as a “flow state,” where time seems to slow down and all focus is on the game. This experience mirrors mindfulness meditation, where awareness is centered on the present moment without judgment. Mindfulness helps quiet rumination, enhance concentration, and reduce anxiety.

Integrating Basketball into Your Mental Health Plan
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or chronic stress, basketball can be an important part of your mental health toolkit, but it shouldn’t replace therapy or medication when needed. Instead, it complements them. A psychiatrist or therapist can help design a treatment plan that includes physical activity as part of your recovery strategy.

Tips for getting started:

• Begin with short sessions like 10 to 15 minutes of shooting.
• Focus on enjoyment, not performance.
• Play with others for added motivation and social benefit.
• Set realistic goals for improvement.
• Stay hydrated and stretch to prevent injury.

Conclusion
Basketball offers far more than just physical fitness. It strengthens the mind, builds community, and enhances emotional resilience. From boosting mood and focus to reducing stress and loneliness, the psychological benefits are well-documented. Whether you play competitively or casually, basketball can help you cultivate a stronger, more balanced mental state.

Depression in children under age 12 is a serious mental health concern that can have lifelong consequences. Parents and healthcare professionals often feel torn between the risks and benefits of antidepressant medications in young patients, but the evidence shows that these medications can be life-changing when used thoughtfully.

Prozac (Fluoxetine): The Only FDA-Approved Antidepressant for Depression Under Age 12
Among all antidepressants, fluoxetine (Prozac) is currently the only medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating major depressive disorder in children under the age of 12. This indication by the FDA was granted in 2003.  This means that we are currently at 22+ years without an additional medication option.

Other antidepressants, while not FDA-approved for depression in this age group, have also been studied:

• Zoloft (sertraline): 2 positive studies under age 12
• Celexa (citalopram): 1 positive study under age 12
• Paxil (paroxetine): 3 negative studies
• Lexapro (escitalopram): 1 negative study

These results indicate that while Prozac leads the way, other medications may provide significant benefit. Working with a child psychiatrist to understand the research and the many options is important.  Note that Lexapro is FDA approved for depression between the ages of 12-17.  It is the only other antidepressant FDA approved younger than age 18. Other options are certainly used off-label, but selection of an alternative is very nuanced.  

How Effective Are Antidepressants in Children?
The effectiveness of antidepressants is very encouraging, especially when combined with therapy. A notable study involving adolescents with moderate to severe depression found that after 36 weeks an impressive 86% of participants receiving both an antidepressant and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) responded to treatment. This combination remains the gold standard for improving mood, functioning, and preventing relapse in children.

Suicide Risk: What the Numbers Really Say
One of the most discussed concerns around antidepressant use in children is the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. It is crucial to interpret this data accurately.

• The lifetime prevalence of a suicide attempt among depressed adolescents is approximately 4.1%.
• No single antidepressant has an adjusted relative risk above 1.0 for suicide attempts. This means that no medication has been shown to increase the overall risk of a suicide attempt when statistical adjustments are made. The study that supported this data had over 35,000 youth enrolled.
• Suicide attempts rose in the general population after the 2004 FDA black box warning was added to antidepressants. The warning led to a sharp drop in prescriptions, and many patients who needed treatment discontinued their medications. This correlated with a spike in suicide attempts and hospitalizations. This paradox highlights a critical point. Untreated depression is far more dangerous than properly monitored antidepressant use.

Long-Term Risks of Untreated Depression
Beyond short-term mood symptoms, depression in childhood can have long-term consequences. One study found that early-onset depression in males was associated with a significantly increased risk of never having children later in life. This suggests potential lifelong impairments in relationships and functioning when mood disorders go untreated.

What If the First Medication Doesn’t Work?
It’s relatively common for the first antidepressant to be partially effective or even ineffective. One high-quality study looked at teens who didn’t respond to their initial SSRI and found no statistically significant difference in response rates when switching to either a second SSRI or to venlafaxine (Effexor). This means that both options are reasonable, and decisions can be based on side effect profiles, patient history, and other factors.

A Positive Outlook on Medication for Depression
Antidepressants are not a cure-all, but they are one of the most powerful tools we have to treat depression in children and adolescents. When used correctly, they can improve quality of life, reduce symptoms, and prevent long-term complications. It’s essential to monitor side effects and assess risks carefully. The larger truth is that the risks of untreated depression often outweigh the risks of treatment. With careful evaluation and compassionate care, children struggling with depression can thrive, and antidepressants can help them get there, especially when used in combination with talk therapy.

If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child may be experiencing depression, please reach out to a local child psychiatrist for an evaluation.  

Looking for depression clinics in Houston? This guide provides essential information on top clinics, available treatments, and how to begin your journey towards recovery.

Depression is a mood disorder that results in a persistent feeling of sadness and a loss of interest in activities. This mental health condition can manifest through various symptoms such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and impacting daily functioning. Major depressive disorder, considered the most severe type of depression, often requires comprehensive treatment to prevent worsening symptoms.

Persistent depressive disorder, also known as chronic depression or dysthymia, is characterized by long-term symptoms that may not be as severe as those of major depressive disorder but still significantly impact one’s quality of life. Other types of depression include clinical depression, postpartum depression, and aspects of bipolar disorder.

Factors contributing to depression and anxiety can range from hormonal changes and neurotransmitter imbalances to genetic predispositions and medical problems. This makes it essential to seek professional help to understand and address these root causes.

Seeking treatment for depression is critical as it helps reduce symptoms to a manageable level and prevents severe outcomes like suicidal thoughts. While there is no instant cure for depression, ongoing treatment and support can lead to significant improvements in mental health and overall quality of life. Understanding the impact of depression and the importance of treatment is the first step towards recovery.

Houston, TX offers a variety of treatment settings tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals struggling with depression. From outpatient programs to intensive inpatient care, the city provides a comprehensive range of options to treat depression effectively. Outpatient programs typically involve regular therapy sessions and assessments, offering flexibility for those who need to maintain daily responsibilities while receiving treatment.

For those requiring a higher level of care, intensive outpatient programs involve meeting multiple times a week for several hours.  This provides more structured support than standard outpatient services. Partial hospitalization programs offer daily treatment, often addressing multiple aspects of mental health. This makes them suitable for individuals needing more intensive care than outpatient services.

Residential treatment and inpatient care are designed for severe cases requiring around-the-clock monitoring and support, ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment for recovery. Inpatient care for acute psychiatric conditions is available at facilities like Houston Methodist, Menninger, and Woodland Springs which provides specialized treatment for severe mental health crises.

With approximately 80% to 90% of individuals with depression responding positively to treatment, these diverse treatment approaches ensure that everyone can find the full continuum of care they need to embark on their recovery journey.

Houston’s depression treatment centers offer a broad range of services designed to address various mental health conditions. These services include evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) which have proven effective in treating depression. In addition to therapy, psychiatrists often use medication to manage symptoms. They create a balanced approach to mental health treatment.

Specialized programs like ketamine assisted psychotherapy are available for treatment-resistant conditions, providing alternative options for those who do not respond to traditional therapies. Patients work closely with their treatment team to set specific recovery goals which ensures that their treatment is tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.
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Community service centers in Houston also provide a full range of behavioral health services including case management and therapy.  They ensure comprehensive care for individuals with complex psychiatric conditions. Whether through inpatient treatment, outpatient programs, or specialized therapies, Houston’s depression treatment centers are equipped to provide compassionate care and support for those struggling with mental health issues.
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Personalized treatment plans are crucial for effective mental health treatment as they address the unique needs of each patient as a whole person. A comprehensive mental health assessment helps build a custom treatment program tailored to individual concerns and diagnoses.
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The goal of psychiatric services at Your Family Psychiatrist is to forge strong relationships with patients through customized, comprehensive interventions. This involves taking an informed, compassionate perspective to understand each patient’s unique situation and develop a treatment plan that promotes healing and recovery. Family involvement is encouraged as it supports the patient’s unique recovery and strengthens relationships.

Ultimately, the purpose of a personalized treatment plan is to help patients develop healthy coping skills and achieve long-term recovery. By identifying specific needs regarding individual therapy, medication, and self harm risks, individuals can choose the right treatment program that best suits their journey towards recovery.
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Licensed professional counselors and social workers play a critical role in the mental health system focusing on both therapy and community support. These professionals are trained to connect individuals with community resources while they provide services through psychotherapy. Social workers and licensed counselors undergo specific training that includes practical experience in community agencies, preparing them to address a wide range of mental health issues.  In Texas, this typically involves a master's degree.

While licensed counselors cannot prescribe medications, they offer invaluable support through therapy and guidance. They often facilitate group therapy sessions and support groups, providing a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and learn from others.

Effective dual diagnosis treatment requires collaboration among various healthcare providers. Counselors often help coordinate concerns with psychiatrists to be sure nothing is missed.
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Dual diagnosis refers to the simultaneous occurrence of depression and substance abuse. In Houston, specialized centers like Your Family Psychiatrist and The Council on Recovery provide integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders. This simultaneous approach ensures the best odds of recovery as relapses can lead to worsening depression.

Training and education for healthcare staff are essential to enhance the quality of care for patients with dual diagnoses. Research and treatment strategies is ever evolving to maximize the recovery process. Treatments currently often include a combination of therapies such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), medication management, and individualized care plans designed to address both mental health and substance use issues. 

Choosing the right depression treatment center is a vital step in the recovery process. Investigating patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and satisfaction level of various treatment programs.  While these reviews often highlight strengths and weaknesses, many reviews are skewed toward the negative as happy patients often don't leave reviews.  They are outside, being more social, or re-engaged with their life.  Consider talking to friends, family, and your local primary care physician to see who they recommend.  

Visiting potential treatment centers allows you to assess the environment and determine if it feels safe and supportive. A positive and welcoming atmosphere is essential for effective mental health treatment as it fosters a sense of security and trust. Additionally, consider the range of services and treatment approaches offered by the clinic to ensure they align with your preferences.

Selecting a clinic that provides compassionate care and a comprehensive range of treatment options can significantly improve your chances of recovery. By taking the time to research and visit potential clinics, you can find the right depression treatment center to help you on your journey towards a positive future.

Lifestyle changes and support networks play a crucial role in managing depression and improving overall well-being. Key strategies include:

• Limiting the intake of processed foods and added sugars.
• Maintaining a consistent exercise routine.
• Getting restful sleep.

Strategies for managing depression include:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
• Engaging in hobbies
• Practicing mindfulness as healthy ways to manage stress management.

​Building a supportive social network possibly through support groups and community programs can improve emotional resilience and help combat feelings of isolation. 
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Scheduling a mental health consultation is an essential first step towards receiving effective depression treatment. At Your Family Psychiatrist, you can start your treatment journey by calling 281-849-4080 or scheduling online here. Taking this initial step can be scary, but it is crucial for accessing the support and care needed to manage depression.
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Don’t hesitate to reach out and take the first step towards a healthier, happier life.
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Houston offers a range of top-rated depression treatment centers equipped to address various mental health conditions. From comprehensive services and personalized treatment plans, these clinics provide the support and knowledge needed for effective recovery. Understanding the types of treatment available, the importance of lifestyle changes, and how to choose the right clinic can increase the odds of early success.

Taking the first step by scheduling a mental health consultation is crucial for accessing the care and support you need. Depression is treatable, and with the right approach and resources, you can achieve long-term recovery.
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What types of depression treatment centers are available in Houston?
Houston has a range of depression treatment centers including outpatient programs, intensive outpatient care, partial hospitalization, residential, and inpatient treatment options. Exploring these diverse settings can help you find the most suitable approach for your needs.

What services do Houston depression clinics offer?
Houston depression clinics offer a variety of services including evidence-based therapies, medication management, and specialized treatments such as ketamine assisted psychotherapy. These comprehensive services aim to support individuals in managing their depression no matter the severity.

How are treatment plans personalized for individuals?
Treatment plans are personalized through thorough mental health assessments that consider each patient's specific needs. This tailored approach ensures that the treatment effectively addresses individual challenges.

What roles do licensed professional counselors and social workers play in treatment?
Licensed professional counselors and social workers are essential in mental health care from therapy, connecting clients with resources, and facilitating group sessions. Their expertise supports individuals in navigating challenges and enhancing treatment naturally.

How can lifestyle changes and support networks help manage depression?
Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and consistent sleep can profoundly enhance depression management. Implementing these strategies fosters resilience, durability, and promotes mental health naturally.

​How often has mom told us “eat a little something and you will feel better”?  Think about it...your brain never stops working.  All day and all night, your brain keeps your bodily functions operating.  Using all that energy requires constant fuel.  What you eat directly affects your bodily functions, including the brain.  So the better you eat, the better your brain will work.  Conversely, when you overeat, or consume junk food, or otherwise skimp on nutrition, you are prone to sadness and anxiety.


This is the basic principle of nutritional psychiatry.


Today's research is showing a correlation between good nutrition and the reduction of free radicals, inflammatory cells, the kinds of bacteria that live in the intestinal tract, as well as how you feel, and behave.  Eating highly refined sugars is now linked to impaired brain function and the aggravation of mood disorders like depression.  Nutritious foods with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants protects the brain from oxidative stress or free radicals produced as the body oxygenates.


Serotonin is a substance, a neurotransmitter, that regulates sleep, appetite, evens out moods, and reduces pain.  The vast majority of serotonin is produced in the gastrointestinal organs.  So there is a direct connection between the transmitters in the gut and the serotonin that keeps our lives on track.  As proper nutrition is processed by the body, it helps regulate our moods as well.


Studies have found that the risk of depression is lowered by 25% to 35% in persons who follow a Mediterranean or Japanese diet.  These eating plans are high in vegetables, fruits, unprocessed grains, and fish and low in meats and dairy.  They also shun processed and refined sugars and other foods.


A food diary is an easy way to see if it works.  Try one of these diet plans and after about a week start keeping a record of what you ate through the day and then how you felt the next day.  Continue this for another week and see if there is a change in your mental attitude.  This is also a way that you can find trigger foods by reintroducing them into your eating plan and then tracking how your emotions are affected.  Also note if you have increased or decreased energy and sleep patterns.


Nutritional psychiatry is applying these studies to patients who suffer from various forms of mental illness especially anxiety and depression.  It appears to be an effective method to reduce or eliminate medications that can have other side effects that adversely affect some people. 


Combining healthy eating with approved psychiatric counseling sessions is one of the non-invasive techniques that can greatly improve lives. 


A 2020 study has revealed that anti-inflammatory fats like Omega-3 are connected to a lower risk of depression.  This study found that women who consumed fish twice per week had a 25% lower risk of depression as compared to those women who ate fish less than twice per week.


Higher risk of depression was found in people who failed to get enough magnesium (beans, lentils, peas, avocado, nuts, whole grains, and dark chocolate).  The same was found in those who were deficient in zinc (oysters, pumpkin seeds, cashews).

​Everyone has mood swings.  There are highs, lows and everything in between.  A mood disorder is when someone experiences inordinately long periods of extreme emotion, which can be happiness or sadness or both.  The most common mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder.
 
Depression
This is the more common mood disorder.  Depression can occur with a traumatic life event like loss of a loved one, loss of a job, major illness, etc.  It can also be spontaneous.   

• Postpartum depression – This is a depression associated with pregnancy and may occur during the pregnancy or following delivery.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder – This is sometimes referred to as dysthymia.  This is a depression that will last for two years or more.  The symptoms may lessen during that time, but although less severe, they still remain.
• Psychotic Depression – This is a severe form of the disorder that involves hallucinations and delusions.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – This is one you hear about generally during the winter especially if it is a winter with consistently overcast skies or weather that keeps people indoors.
• Medically Related – This comes about due to medication side effects, substance abuse or during a medical condition.

 
Bipolar Disorder
This has also been called manic-depression.  These are episodes of severe depression alternating with extreme activity and elation (mania).

• Bipolar I – Classified as the most severe form of the disease, the episodes will last a minimum of a week, depression will last for up to two weeks, and both the mania and depression can occur simultaneously.
• Bipolar II – This is a less severe form of the disease, but it can still be quite dysfunctional when untreated.  The mania is less intense and these people can frequently handle activities of daily living.
• Cyclothymia – People with this illness have continuous but irregular mood swings that may vary from mild to moderate levels but for extended periods of time.  There are usually only short periods of normalcy and the mood changes can occur quickly.
• Other – If someone has abnormal mood changes but does not fit into any of the above categories, it is placed in the catchall “other” diagnosis.  These include premenstrual dysphoric disorder and intermittent explosive disorder.

 
Symptoms
While the symptoms will vary depending on the type of mood disorder here are some indicators:

• Depression
  • Sadness daily or most of the time
  • Low to no energy
  • Feelings of low self worth
  • Loss of appetite, weight gain
  • Sleep issues
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Thoughts of death and suicide
• Bipolar
  • Unusually rapid speech or movements
  • Grandiosity
  • Agitation
  • Racing thoughts
  • Insomnia to the extreme
  • Feeling edgy for no apparent reason
  • Overly risk taking like gambling or reckless driving

 
The cause for mood disorders can include genetic (family history), biological, and environmental.  Bipolar disorders are associated with the structure and function in the brain.  Our psychiatrists in Houston are considered experts in mood disorders.  If you believe you may be experiencing a mood disorder, contact us today.

Everyone has times when they are sad, lose interest, or are anxious.  However, when these feelings persist, it can lead to a number of emotional and even physical problems.  As these feelings grow, the individual may develop difficulty with basic activities like personal hygiene and managing meals. 
 
Depression is a medical condition that can improve with treatment or decline with lack of intervention. 
 
It can begin as a result of a traumatic event like the loss of a loved one, divorce, unemployment, etc.  It can also be a result of a family history of mood disorders.  If as a child you experienced some traumatic event, there can be some lingering feelings that need to be resolved.  Medical conditions can also lead to a depressive state.  Sometimes these are medication induced and sometimes the realization that you are no longer in control of certain bodily functions.
 
The good news is this is a treatable condition.  There are some medications and certainly therapeutic remedies available.  Here are some of the more common symptoms of clinical depression.

• Sadness, gloom, excessive crying
• Feeling of emptiness
• Outbursts of anger, especially over trivial issues
• Excessive sleeping or continual insomnia
• Eating disorders like overeating or reduced appetite
• Loss of interest in a favorite activity or hobby
• Slow reactions like speaking or thinking; inability to follow conversations
• Thoughts or actions of self harm

 
There can be many differences in how children and adolescents experience depression.  This can include refusing to attend classes, insecurity shown through clinging to a person or object, and eating disorders.  Because of the extensive hormonal changes, teenage depression can sometimes be overlooked.  Some warning signs include sudden poor academic performance, use of recreational drugs or alcohol, and social isolation.
 
Likewise, older adults may often consider sadness a normal part of the aging process. This is incorrect. Some things to watch for are personality changes, avoiding group activities and gatherings, and, again, self harm.  Abrupt changes in the aging process is a sign that something is  wrong.  
 
If you feel that you are depressed, it is important to seek help from a reputable mental health professional.  If you simply have concerns, start by speaking with a trusted friend, relative, religious leader, or someone whose opinion you value.  There are also toll-free services for you to call and discuss your feelings.  These are manned by impartial but caring individuals who can help you understand your feelings and the next steps to take.
 
If you are a relative or friend, you can also find a service to help you cope with the situation.  There are reliable techniques that can be beneficial.
 
Any attempts at self harm should be taken seriously and place a call to 911 emergency services immediately. 

Depression counseling is effective for clinical depression. Depression can pose a serious mental health issue for those who suffer from it, and it can come in many forms such as:

• Major depressive order
• Persistent depressive order
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Postpartum depression
• Bipolar disorder

 
The symptoms include sadness, loss of enjoyment in things that previously held interest, difficulty concentrating and more.  However, depression responds quite well to therapeutic counseling and anti-depressant medications.  The individual will need to find an appropriate counselor, psychotherapist, or psychologist.  This professional will be able to help the person find the root cause of the problem and then develop effective strategies to cope with the situation and others that may arise in the future.
 
Treatment for depression is often called “talk therapy”.  Counseling is frequently the first step or even the solution for mild or moderate depression.  If the condition is severe, the patient may consider seeing a licensed psychiatrist for pharmaceuticals to bridge the gap.
 
The counselor will start by determining the extent of the depression and how long they have been experiencing it.  He or she will also determine the severity of the disorder.  If the onset is fairly recent and does not have deeper impact on other feelings, a counselor is a good choice.  On the other hand, with a more severe case, the patient may be referred to another therapist if a specific specialist is warranted.
 
The treatment will involve discussions between the patient and therapist to understand the underlying issues.  Homework assignments may be recommended to help track moods and situations.  The counselor will also adjust any sessions depending on the progress of the patient.  Another method is the use of interpersonal therapy that deals with conflict of personalities and with an inadequate social support system that can lead to depression.
 
The ultimate goal is to discover the underlying causes for these thoughts, feelings, and the resulting behaviors.  With that knowledge the individual can develop alternatives and coping mechanisms to work through current issues and to help with future situations.  This is a patient focused therapy where the individual is an active participant in the decisions.
 
An important factor is finding the right mental health professional that suits the patient.  Because the therapy is one-on-one and highly personal, it may take several tries before the connection is made.  Start by asking your family practice doctor or working through a mental health facility in your area.  When you have some names, go online and read about them.  Frequently they will list their preferred forms of treatment and specialties.  
 
The important thing to realize is that there is a good success rate in treating depression.  There are a number of different types of approaches and effective medications.  Getting help and resolving the problem is a reachable goal.  Call us today for an assessment.