Depression is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a major depressive disorder, and is sometimes referred to as a clinical depression.
It is characterized by persistently depressed mood and/ or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, impairing one’s ability to function in his or her daily life. There is no single identifiable cause of depression, rather Harvard Health asserts that there are many possible causes of depression. The various symptoms associated with depression can range from mild to severe. While depression can develop at any age, symptoms commonly surface in adolescence and young adulthood. Depression is a highly common, complex psychiatric disorder that affects mood, cognition, and behavior, and impedes adaptive functioning. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that approximately 21.4% of adults in the United States experience depression or a depressive disorder at some point in their lives.
Residential Treatment
There is no single treatment plan that is entirely effective for everyone that struggles with depression, as each person is unique. For those suffering from severe depression pursuing a residential treatment program may be advantageous. With inpatient depression treatment, the individual resides at the facility for the duration of the program, receiving full-time treatment without returning home in the evenings. There is a variety of residential treatment programs available for individuals struggling with depression, which can make the search rather overwhelming. To start the process, speak to your PCP (primary care provider) as he or she will likely be able to point you in the right direction and recommend an inpatient depression treatment program or connect you with someone in their professional network that can provide further assistance. Prior to making any commitments, it is essential to conduct due diligence and learn about the therapeutic program offered by each prospective treatment center. Consider asking the following questions:
- What’s the overall therapeutic philosophy and methodology? Listen closely to the representative’s ability to concisely describe the philosophy and methodology.
- What level of licensure do clinical staff members, group leaders, and residential staff members have? When looking at a residential treatment center, it is important to know who makes up the therapeutic and the residential staff. Find out the accreditation of the facility itself as well as the clinical staff.
- What does a daily schedule look like? The answer to this question will help you understand if the program provides customized treatment plans. Quality residential treatment programs will develop tailored treatment plans that include a multidisciplinary approach.
- Is it common to have family play a role in treatment? If so, what? Depending on your preference, this answer can help you decide if the program offers too much family inclusion, not enough, or an amount that feels comfortable to you.
- What aftercare support and follow-up services does your center provide?
The most significant benefit of inpatient treatment for depression is that it provides the individual with a supportive milieu and community in which to recover.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At Upwell Advisors, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected]. We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
