If you are suffering from depression, and/or anxiety, you know how it can quickly take over your world. Your family and loved ones also suffer, as they feel helpless and don't know what to do.
With the help of a psychologist, you will be able to identify the source of your depression, if you haven't already. You will also be able to come up with some solutions and answers that may indicate why you are prone to this illness (genetics, etc...). Addiction is closely related to depression, and this may be your way of coping, or 'self-medicating' yourself. You are actually doing more harm than good when you add drugs or alcohol to your problems.
There are different types of depression, from mild (think of the February 'blahs') to much more serious types like manic-depressive or bi-polar disorder. The effectiveness and length of treatment will depend on the severity of your depression.
It is a good idea to book appointments for the same day and time if possible; this will create a routine, and will probably become something you actually look forward to. A psychologist will engage you in conversation so you can come up with some of your own answers and solutions. They know the most effective questions to ask, in order to get you thinking and remembering.
Psychologists don't just bombard you with questions; that is not the entire reason they are there. Based on your unique situation and lifestyle, they will come up with techniques and tips to use in your everyday life to help you deal with your depression. They may recommend certain breathing techniques, or even some books to read. They will provide you with strategies on how to deal with certain situations. They may even recommend that you join a local support group: this is extremely beneficial if you've suffered the loss of a loved one, and that is the cause of your depression.
Many times, you are able to tell your psychologist things that you would never tell the people that are close to you. They provide an objective view of your life and your situation. Loved ones and friends can be harsh, and even though they are trying to help, can make things worse.
Meet with a few psychologists in person to get a feel for how you get along. You'll need to be completely at ease with them, so you need to meet with them first. Ask about their credentials, how long they've been in business and what their rates are.
When you are searching for a psychotherapist to work with, it's important to find one that you are completely comfortable with. Do a search online for local professionals in your area. For example, if you live in Atlanta, you will want to search for Psychotherapist in Atlanta, GA. This will pull up all of the listings in your area. Don't worry about being labeled. They are bound by a code of conduct that includes confidentiality. They will never reveal your identity or discuss the details of your file with anyone else.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Maulik_Vyas
