Depression is the most common mood disorder in the United States- and the world. Currently the fourth most debilitating human condition (behind heart disease, cancer and traffic accidents) according to the World Health Organization; WHO predicts that by the year 2020 depression will have risen to be the second most debilitating condition.

Depression is a serious condition which affects virtually every aspect of a person’s everyday life experiences. It is often complicated by the presence of co-existing problems, such as anxiety. Depression is not a sign of personal weakness, although many depressed people feel guilty about not being stronger and tend to blame themselves. It is not possible just to “pull yourself up by the bootstraps” in order to get better. The sufferer should find the help of a trained professional. A depression is a time to discover what can be made better. A trained professional can help the person with depression begin to see things in a more positive light.

Depression is a treatable condition, responsive to good treatments that emphasize action. Research has shown that cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy and solution focused therapy are effective and lead to much less relapses than when medication is used. A qualified therapist will teach them the thinking, relational social skills they need to be good problem solvers able to handle life challenges.

What is most encouraging about this overwhelming condition is that so many people do get better when they find the appropriate treatment!

Dr. Baya Mebarek, Psy.D., LMFT
www.sandiegofamilytherapy.net

San Diego Couples and Family Therapy serves the surrounding areas of Sorrento Valley Road as La Jolla, UTC San Diego, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Penasquitos, Poway, University City and Escondido.