How to Get Help for Depression – A Simple Guide

You Are Not Alone

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, remember this: you’re not alone. Depression is common and treatable. Everyone experiences it differently, so treatment will look different for everyone too.

Some people prefer physical activity, talking to someone, or journaling. Others might need medication. The good news is that with the right help, depression can be managed.

Ways to Get Help for Depression

1. Therapy

Talking to a trained therapist can help, especially for mild to moderate depression. In more serious cases, therapy is often combined with medication.

• Talk Therapy: You share your thoughts and feelings with a professional who listens and helps you understand your emotions and behaviors.

• Cognitive Therapy: Helps you recognize and change negative thought patterns.

• Behavioral Therapy: Focuses on changing unhealthy habits and encourages positive activities.

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Combines both cognitive and behavioral techniques to improve mood and behavior.

2. Online Therapy

If in-person sessions aren’t an option, online therapy is a great alternative:

• Brightside Health: Includes therapy and psychiatry services, especially for people at high risk.

• Calmerry: Offers text-based and video therapy, great for beginners.

• Talkspace: Known for flexible scheduling and easy access to licensed therapists.

3. Medication

Medication can help balance brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine. Not everyone needs it, but for some, it’s essential.

Common types include:

• SSRIs (e.g. Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro): Usually fewer side effects.

• SNRIs (e.g. Cymbalta, Pristiq): Help with mood by increasing brain chemicals.

• Tricyclic Antidepressants (e.g. Tofranil, Pamelor): Older, more powerful meds with stronger side effects.

A doctor will consider your health, symptoms, and possible side effects before prescribing anything.

4. Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

If you prefer a more natural approach, always talk to your doctor first.

• Natural Options: St. John’s Wort, relaxation techniques, acupuncture.

• Lifestyle Habits: Eat well, avoid alcohol or drugs, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. These changes can boost your mood and overall health.

5. Support Groups

Talking to others who understand what you’re going through can be comforting.

• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Offers free support and education.

• ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America): Hosts online and in-person support groups with over 84,000 members.

How to Find Help Near You

Start by talking to your doctor. They can refer you to a therapist or psychiatrist.

Other ways to find help:

• Online therapy platforms

• Religious leaders (if you prefer faith-based counseling)

• Health directories and review websites

Finding the Right Treatment for You

• Be patient. Treatments take time—sometimes weeks or months.

• Don’t quit treatment without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better.

• If something isn’t working after a few months, ask for a new approach.

You may need to try a few therapists or medications before finding the right fit. That’s normal. If you feel your depression isn’t improving, or it’s getting worse, tell your doctor right away.

The Bottom Line

Depression can be hard, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right support—whether it’s therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes—you can feel better.

Don’t be afraid to reach out. Help is always available.