Depression is a mental disorder characterized by low mood, apathy, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and it affects approximately 17 million American adults. Today, there is wide acceptance of people who suffer from depression, which in turn, makes it easier for those suffering to seek help for their condition.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, it’s important to choose a depression treatment center that can provide the best care possible. To help guide you in your search, here are five important questions to ask the provider.
1. What type of treatments do you offer?
There are many different types of depression treatments available, so it’s important to make sure the center you choose offers the ones that will work best for you or your loved one. Some common types of treatments include medication, therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which involves the use of magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain to help improve symptoms of depression.
2. What is your success rate?
Every treatment center has different success rates for treating depression. It’s important to ask about this, so you can have realistic expectations for what kind of results you may achieve from treatment. Success rates are measured by the percentage of patients who start to feel better after completing treatment and do not relapse within a certain period of time.
3. Do you have experience treating my specific type of depression?
There are many different subtypes of depressive disorders, so it’s crucial to make sure the center has experience treating the specific type that applies to you or your loved one. Moreover, all psychiatrists may be trained in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, however, not all treat patients of all ages. So, if you are seeking depression treatment for your teen, make sure they specialize in this age group. Also, let the doctor know if you or your loved one has suicidal ideations or self-harming behaviors, as well as addiction, to determine if they can adequately address all aspects required for a full recovery.
4. How long does treatment usually last?
The length of time needed for successful treatment can vary, depending on individual circumstances but generally speaking, most people will need several weeks or months of treatment for long-term results. It is important to know the duration of treatment, so you can manage your expectations. Depression can be treated on an outpatient basis, which allows one to still live at home and go about their normal daily routine while receiving treatment, which can make it feel less like a “treatment” and more like part of life. It’s even better if the facility is flexible with its scheduling and offers in-person and virtual appointments.
5. What happens after the completion of treatment?
Aftercare planning is a critical aspect of treatment because relapse rates for depressive disorders tend to be high without proper ongoing support. Many facilities offer programs and other resources to patients even after they complete treatment. Staying connected and getting help when needed is always an option.
These are just a few of the many important questions you should ask before choosing a depression specialty treatment center. Hopefully, this gives you a good starting point in your search for quality depression treatment.
Depression Treatment in Denver and Lakewood, CO
Denver Wellness Associates is a depression treatment center that makes it easy for patients of all ages to receive expert treatment for their condition. Our board-certified psychiatrists are compassionate and flexible with our scheduling – with in-person and virtual visits. In addition, we also communicate with your insurance company, so you don’t deal with the hassle and can focus on your mental health. We also accept payment plans, if needed.
At Denver Wellness Associates, we are committed to your treatment. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, call or text us at (720) 724-3668, send us an email at [email protected], or use our convenient online request form.