Depression Treatment - Edmonton

Name: Boost Psychology
Address: 2307 - 90B Street SW, Edmonton, AB, T6X 0P4
Telephone: 780-628-5446

Depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. There are ranges of depression symptoms. Some manage to function in their day to day, and others are debilitated and unable to get out of bed. Within the category of Depressive Disorders, there are several sub-types. All sub-types share the common symptoms of sad, empty, or irritable mood. These are accompanied by changes in thinking and symptoms related to the body such as headaches and pain. Depression usually comes in episodes, lasting anywhere from two weeks to months or more. The most common condition is Major Depressive Disorder, which is marked by depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks.

Depression Treatment – Edmonton
Registered Psychologists
South Edmonton Depression Therapy
780-628-5446
2307 – 90B Street SW Edmonton
click for Directions
*just off of Ellerslie Road on 91 St. – Located in Summerside
Book an Appointment Online

depression therapy edmonton - happiness - boost psychology

Depression is a negative thought triad. People who are expediting depression tend to have a negative view of themselves, and negative view of the world, and a negative view of the future. Depression is the most common mental disorder, and at any given time about 4% of the Canadian population is experiencing it. About one in every eight people in Canada will experience depression in their lifetime. There is no one cause for depression, but some things that influence its presentation include genetics, stress for initial episodes, trauma, difficult relationships, health issues, medications, and socio-economic difficulties. The greatest predictor for a depressive episode is a previous episode.

What contributes to the maintenance of depression symptoms?

Unhealthy lifestyle
Negative thinking patterns
Being “always-on”, through phone, social media use, and emails.
Drug and alcohol use or abuse
Poor sleep habits
Poor social connections

Common symptoms of depression include low mood, feeling guilty or worthless, little or no interest in activities that were once enjoyed, changes in weight or appetite, sleep disturbances – either sleeping more or sleeping less, low energy, fatigue, thoughts of suicide or death, and poor concentration and trouble making decisions. Depending on the type of depression, these episodes can last weeks to several years.

Depression is now the leading cause of disability worldwide. The World Health Organization stated that rates of depression have increased by 18% since 2005. The average person experiencing depression can take up to 10 years to start treatment. It’s important to know that in most cases depression can be managed and treated.

What can I do to improve my depression symptoms?

Exercise
Eat healthy foods, and eat at regular intervals to maintain blood sugar
Practice gratitude
Change negative and unhelpful thinking patterns
Practice mindfulness, both formal and informal to be in the present moment
Set boundaries
Find a therapist that you click with
See your family doctor

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know if I have depression?

The criteria for a diagnosis of depression are listed in the Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This is the book that clinicians use to determine if a client meets the criteria for a specific disorder. When you arrive for therapy you will be given an assessment tool that screens for depression symptoms and their severity. Your psychologist may refer you to your family doctor who can make an assessment on depression or refer you to a psychiatrist who specializes in diagnosis and assessment.

How long does treatment take?

Your psychologist will work with you to create an individual treatment plan. The best evidence-based treatment for depression is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT works to change the way you think about yourself and situations, as well as incorporating activities that promote wellness. The therapists at Boost use evidence-based treatment methods for depression.

Treatment for depression varies for everyone. Depending on the modality used and the circumstances of the individual, treatment can take anywhere from 4 – 15+ sessions. Research shows that the most effective treatment for depression is a combination of therapy and medication. When you meet with your psychologist, they can provide you with a treatment estimate based on your presenting problem.

Which treatment option will be used?

There are several options for treating depression depending on which theory is being used. The most effective treatment for depression is Cognitive Behavioral therapy which is an evidence-based treatment. Being an evidence-based treatment means that CBT has been administered in clinical trials all over the world and has produced similar results of improving depression symptoms. The premise of CBT is that the way we think influencing our emotions and behaviors. If we change our thoughts, we can change the way we feel and behave. The video below does a great job of explaining Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

In addition to depression treatment, Boost Psychology provides services for a variety of issues including trauma, burnout, anxiety, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, etc. Our therapists have training in various evidence-based modalities. We believe it is key to listen to you to get a thorough understanding of what’s going on in your life. This is an important step before working toward the resolution of the problem. Give our office a call today to discuss your options and work toward creating a healthier you.

edmonton depression treatment - boost psychology

Author: Kirsten Klemm