Depression can make everything feel distant or heavy—but healing is possible. At Mellow Therapy in Culver City, we offer in-person support to help you reconnect with yourself, rebuild your energy, and move toward the life you want.
Our Approach to Depression Therapy
Depression Symptoms
Symptoms of depression can manifest in various ways, including:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or oversleeping
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide (If you are currently contemplating suicide, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255)
How Do I Know if I’m Depressed?
Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. While it is normal to experience occasional sadness, depression becomes a concern when it significantly impacts a person’s ability to function and enjoy life. In the US, depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting more than 8% (21 million) of American adults each year and 15% of youth (3.7 million) ages 12-17.
Depression Treatment
The good news is that effective treatments are available for depression. At Mellow, we employ evidence-based psychotherapy modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), to help individuals manage their depressive symptoms and enhance their overall well-being.
Our depression therapy can address various forms of depression, such as:
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Persistent Depressive Disorder
- Bipolar Disorder (during depressive episodes)
- Seasonal Affective Disorder
- And more
Depression FAQ’s
Where does depression come from?
Depression is a complex condition with multifaceted origins. It can arise from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. While it is influenced by a genetic predisposition, various life events, such as trauma, loss, or chronic stress, can trigger or exacerbate depressive episodes.
What’s the typical duration of depression therapy?
The duration of depression therapy is highly individualized, varying based on factors such as the severity of symptoms, personal progress, and treatment goals. On average, individuals often engage in depression therapy for several months, with significant improvements observed within the first few weeks for many.
The goal of therapy is to equip individuals with the skills and strategies needed to manage and navigate their depressive symptoms effectively. Considering that over 17 million adults in the U.S. have experienced at least one major depressive episode in their lives, seeking timely and appropriate therapy is crucial.
How do I know if depression therapy is working?
Recognizing the effectiveness of depression therapy can involve both subjective and objective measures. Signs that therapy is working may include a noticeable reduction in:
- The severity and frequency of depressive symptoms
- An improved ability to cope with life’s challenges
- Enhanced emotional well-being
Objective assessments, guided by measurement-based care (MBC), can also provide insights into progress. It’s important to remember that therapy progress can be gradual, and open communication with your therapist is key.
