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Virtual Treatment for Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders and is also categorized as a mood disorder. However, only 66% of American adults received treatment for depression in 2020. Mental health treatment can be an essential aspect of managing symptoms of depression or similar mental health concerns, but traditional therapy may not be the best fit for everyone.
Enhance Health Group’s virtual mental health treatment in California provides an alternative to in-person treatment. Virtual depression treatment provides a wide range of benefits, including making treatment more accessible. An individualized treatment plan can be created with therapeutic services and medication management to help with depression symptoms.
What is Depression?
Major depressive disorder (MDD), commonly referred to as depression, is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of sadness that can affect daily functioning. MDD is one of the most common mental health conditions in the United States, with about 21 million adults having at least one major depressive episode.
Although the exact cause of depression is unknown, risk factors like genes, family history, and stress can increase the likelihood of developing depression. Depressive episodes may be triggered by hormone imbalances, alcohol or drug use, and childhood trauma.
Depression Symptoms
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) is a diagnostic tool to help mental health professionals define specific disorders. To be diagnosed with depression, symptoms must occur for at least two weeks, and experiences change from previous functioning ability. In addition, at least one of the symptoms is either a depressed mood or a loss of interest.
According to the DSM-V, symptoms of depression include:
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness
- Losing interest or pleasure in almost all activities
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Sleeping disturbances
- Agitation or irritability
- Low energy levels
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Decreasing ability to think or concentrate
- Suicidal ideation or attempts
Managing Symptoms of Depression with Virtual Treatment
Virtual mental health treatment helps manage symptoms of depression by providing a safe and confidential outlet for talking through mental health concerns. Virtual depression treatment includes one-on-one meetings with a therapist, psychiatrist, and group therapy. Depending on the diagnosis and individual needs, medication management can be provided.
Medications commonly used to help treat symptoms of depression are antidepressants such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs). SSRIs and SNRIs can change neurotransmitter levels in the depressed brain that are commonly imbalanced. SSRIs work by balancing serotonin levels in the brain to reach normal levels, while SNRIs focus on norepinephrine and serotonin levels.
Benefits of Virtual Depression Treatment
Virtual depression treatment can be a helpful alternative to in-person treatment, especially when there are limited resources to attend in-person sessions. In fact, 76% of people with depression reported improvement after the third virtual treatment.
Convenient
Barriers to getting depression treatment can include a lack of time, transportation, or providers in the area. Depression can make getting out of bed, getting dressed, and simple tasks extremely difficult. Virtual treatment for depression can help break these barriers and help with recovery from depression.
Virtual mental health treatment is a convenient alternative to traditional counseling. This kind of treatment allows meetings with a licensed professional from home or anywhere with reliable internet access.
Affordable
Virtual depression treatment tends to be a more affordable alternative to in-person treatment. The lack of overhead costs and the reduced need for office space contributes to the reduced price of virtual depression programs. Money may no longer be a barrier with virtual treatment, and insurance often covers these programs.
Anonymity
Depression often comes with guilt and shame over the low mood persistently felt. The stigma associated with depression and other mental health disorders can cause barriers to receiving treatment. Virtual depression treatment can provide an environment to receive help with confidentiality and care.
Access to Mental Health Professionals
Living in rural areas or areas with limited access to specialized care can pose a barrier to treatment. Virtual depression treatment provides the availability to access specialists who can help treat symptoms of depression. Licensed clinicians and psychiatrists can be available for therapy and medication management when needed.
Telehealth depression treatment gives the ability to reach out to specialists from anywhere, provided internet access is available. Scheduling and traveling logistics do not conflict with the ability to access specialized care.
What to Expect from Virtual Depression Treatment
Participation in virtual depression treatment can be accomplished by having an electronic device, accessing the internet, and finding a private area. Many insurance companies now recognize that virtual mental health treatment can be a beneficial alternative to in-person treatment. Most insurances cover virtual treatment, including treatment for depression.
What to expect from Enhance Health Group’s telehealth depression program:
Two-way live interactive digital video and/or telephone communication
Therapeutic visits through zoom or other virtual platforms that adhere to HIPAA compliance requirements
Psychiatrists with the ability to prescribe medications when needed
Group therapy sessions using evidence-based therapies
Depression Help from Enhance Health Group
Depression is a common mental health disorder that can affect daily life. To be diagnosed with depression, a depressed mood and depression symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. Virtual treatment for depression can be beneficial in reducing depression symptoms from the ease and comfort of your own home.
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, reach out to Enhance Health Group in California today. Our team can answer any questions you may have and give you a better understanding of our virtual depression program.