Depression is more than feeling down or having a rough week. It’s a serious medical condition, but it’s also very common. In 2021, an estimated 21 million American adults had at least one major depressive episode. This number represents just under 10% of all U.S. adults. Among young people, the numbers are even higher, with over 20% of adolescents ages 12 to 17 experiencing a major depressive episode in the same year.
Depression can feel like a heavy weight, affecting every part of your life. It can make it hard to do things you once loved, keep up with work or school, and even maintain your relationships. It can zap your energy, your focus and your hope. However, the most important thing to remember is you don’t have to go through this alone. Help is available, and taking the first step is a sign of incredible strength.
The importance of seeking help for depression
Reaching out for help can be one of the hardest parts of dealing with depression, but it’s also one of the most important. Many people are held back by the fear of being judged, or they believe that those feelings will just go away on their own. However, depression is a medical condition, not a personal failing. Waiting to get help can make things worse.
According to the World Health Organization, depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can start to feel better and regain a sense of stability. Getting the right support can help you learn new, healthy ways of coping, understand the root causes of your feelings, and start to rebuild a life that feels meaningful and full of purpose.
How to find the right depression help near you
Finding the right person to talk to can feel like a big challenge, but having a clear plan can make it much easier. Here are some steps to help you find the right help near you:
Start with your primary care provider.
Your primary care provider is a great place to start. They can check if there are underlying physical health issues leading to your symptoms. They can also refer you to a mental health professional, like a psychiatrist or a therapist, who specializes in treating depression.
Use online directories.
Many professional organizations have online tools to help you find a therapist or counselor. Websites like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) have easy-to-use search engines where you can filter by location, insurance and the type of issues you’re facing.
Check with your insurance company.
Call your insurance company to get a list of mental health providers in your network. This can save you a lot of money and make sure the care you get is covered. Your insurance provider can also explain what your benefits are, like how many sessions you can have and what your copay will be.
Look into community resources.
If you don’t have insurance, or if you’re looking for other options, check with your local community health centers. Many offer low-cost or free mental health services. You can also look for support groups, which can be a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
Consider telehealth options.
Telehealth has made it easier than ever to get mental health support, no matter where you live. Through secure video or phone sessions, you can connect with licensed therapists, psychiatrists or counselors from the comfort of your own home. This can be especially helpful if you live in a rural area, have transportation challenges or have a busy schedule.
Ask the right questions.
When you find a provider you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can ask them about their experience treating depression, what kind of techniques they use and what a typical session looks like. Remember, you’re looking for someone you feel comfortable and safe with.
What if the provider isn’t a good fit?
It’s important to know that the first therapist you meet may not be the right one for you and that’s completely fine. An important part of therapy is the relationship between you and your provider. If you don’t feel a good connection or if you feel judged or misunderstood, it’s OK to look for someone else. You can tell them you want to stop or you can simply call another provider on your list. A good provider will understand and want what’s best for you, even if that means seeing someone else. It’s about finding the right partnership for your healing journey. You deserve support that feels safe and effective.
Taking these steps can help you find a path forward, a way to move through the darkness and into a brighter space. You’re worth the effort, and you deserve to feel better.
When depression feels heavy, Lightfully can help carry the weight
If you or a loved one is struggling, Lightfully is here to help you find your way. We offer a compassionate, whole-person-centered care model that looks at you as an entire person, not just a diagnosis. Our personalized treatment plans are created just for you and can include a variety of levels of care, from Residential Treatment Centers to Virtual Intensive Outpatient Programs, to meet you where you are. You can get better, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.
