If you’ve been struggling with major depressive disorder (MDD), you may feel stuck. Your depression might cause you to feel exhausted and unsure about what to do next. Depression can make even the smallest decisions seem overwhelming, including the choice to seek treatment. However, getting professional support can be a life-changing step toward feeling better.

There are many reasons why you might feel hesitant about seeking treatment. Maybe you don’t think your symptoms are “bad enough” for treatment, or maybe you think your depression will fade if you ignore it. If you’re reluctant to seek treatment, it’s important to understand that depression is not just a passing mood. Treatment can provide relief, support and valuable tools to help you regain control of your life.

Why you shouldn’t hesitate to seek treatment for major depressive disorder

• Depression can get worse — Depression shouldn’t be ignored. MDD is a serious mental health disorder. It can affect your physical health and the way you think and feel. When left untreated, symptoms can become more severe over time. You might start withdrawing from loved ones, struggling at work or school, or feeling more hopeless. You may experience physical symptoms like chronic fatigue, stomach pain and headaches. Depression does not necessarily come and go. Without treatment, depression symptoms may persist for months or even years. Seeking help early can prevent symptoms from worsening and improve your overall well-being.
• You don’t have to go through it alone — MDD has a lifetime prevalence of up to 17%, research shows. While depression can make you feel isolated, there are actually a lot of people who might relate to what you’re going through. Peer support groups can help you connect with other people who have had similar experiences. You can also get support from professionals. There are licensed clinical therapists, psychiatrists and others who are dedicated to treating mental health challenges. Having professional guidance can make a huge difference. A therapist can help you understand your thoughts and emotions, develop coping strategies, and work through any underlying challenges contributing to your depression. Treatment can also help you rebuild connections with friends and family.
• Treatment can help you regain energy — Depression can make life feel dull, exhausting and overwhelming. You might find that activities you used to enjoy no longer bring you happiness. You may often feel too disinterested or drained to even think about seeking treatment. When you feel this way, it’s important to seek help anyway. Psychotherapy, medication and other evidence-based treatments can help restore balance to your emotions. You can work to feel energized again. You may even feel a renewed sense of motivation and hope. The earlier you start treatment, the sooner you can begin to experience positive changes. Treatment doesn’t need to be a big ordeal, either. With Virtual Services, you can get the support you need without leaving your home.
• Your mental and physical health are connected — Depression can take a toll on your body. People with depression often experience physical symptoms like sleep disturbances, appetite changes and fatigue. MDD treatment isn’t just about improving your mental health; it can also protect your body. A comprehensive treatment plan may help you improve sleep, boost energy levels and reduce the physical symptoms of depression.
• There are options that match your needs — Every person’s journey with depression is unique. This means that everyone also has different treatment needs. Whether you need intensive support or more flexible care, there are different levels of care available to fit you. You can access multiple levels of care designed to provide the right level of support for each individual at Lightfully.

Lightfully’s levels of care for depression

At Lightfully, we believe that mental health treatment should be compassionate, personalized and effective. We offer different levels of care to meet people wherever they are in their mental health journey.

Our levels of care include:

• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)/Day Treatment Program
• Residential Treatment
• Virtual Services (vIOP/vPHP)

Get professional treatment for major depressive disorder at Lightfully

If you’ve been struggling with major depressive disorder, seeking treatment is one of the most important steps you can take for your well-being. You deserve support, understanding and tools to help you heal. At Lightfully, our licensed clinical experts are here to guide you toward recovery with evidence-based care and a welcoming environment. Our Precision Care Model centers on delivering compassionate, data-driven care. With our help, you can stop fighting depression alone and start getting the support you need.

Change is possible, and you can contact us to discuss first steps. When you’re ready to start addressing your depression with professional support, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.