Over the years, I have covered one of the most devastating and common disorders on the planet: depression. If you didn’t know, depression affects a whopping 300 million people worldwide.
According to various well-known sources, it is the “leading cause of disability.” What’s particularly troubling about this illness is the impact it has on people. As is the case with many things in life, there is a spectrum.
Some people are mildly affected while others are severely affected. But it doesn’t really matter where you are on the spectrum. Depression can have a lasting negative impact on your life. It can even lead to suicide.
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Just a few weeks ago, I wrote about three habits that helped me overcome depression. I touched on various points that people can do in order to help them on their path to getting better.
- The first point was spending time with the Lord. In my opinion, it is important for your soul to be happy, not only when times are good but also when they’re challenging.
- The second point was exercise. Most people don’t understand the importance of exercise; it is known to play a large role in the state of your mental health.
- The last point was to read or listen to audiobooks and/or podcasts. More and more people are turning to “self-help” options, especially if they’re illness is considered mild. By simply listening to podcasts that are of interest to you, you consciously and subconsciously broaden your horizons and expand your overall mindset.
- One last point I mentioned was to set goals. Especially in the millennial generation, goals are largely a thing of the past. But boy can goal setting help. It can allow you to focus on life and be motivated to face the daily challenges that are ahead of you.
The above are just a few things that have personally helped me in my journey in life. However, everyone is their own individual. There are many other different ways that help people overcome depression on their own. It’s important to find what works best for you.
BUT…
As noted above, 300 million people suffer from depression. That’s a lot of people, and unfortunately, not everyone can “cure” their depression by themselves. So, what should you do in this case? The short and easy answer: seek professional help. The long answer? It’s not so simple.
The long answer paints a picture of the current situation for a large majority of the population. Yes, a majority. 56% of the adult population don’t receive treatment for their disorder.
What’s worse is that the overwhelming majority of these people know that they have a mental illness. So, why aren’t they doing something about it, especially the ones who are dealing with more severe cases?
What’s worse is that the overwhelming majority of these people know that they have a mental illness. So, why aren’t they doing something about it, especially the ones who are dealing with more severe cases?
There are over a dozen reasons why people with depression, for example, don’t get treatment. The reason that stands out the most? Money.
People simply believe that they cannot afford professional therapy. While this used to be true, there are alternate therapy solutions available at affordable rates. Let’s take a look at some of these options.
People simply believe that they cannot afford professional therapy. While this used to be true, there are alternate therapy solutions available at affordable rates. Let’s take a look at some of these options.
Organizations & Associations
There is no shortage of organizations and associations that help you find therapy. Some of these groups either work with most insurance plans or offer therapy either for free or at a low cost.
Therapy via the Internet
While it’s unfortunate that most rural areas don’t have a licensed professional around, this is no longer an issue due to the rise of therapy over the internet.
An increasing number of therapists are offering their services online, many of whom charge at a heavily discounted rate. Simply filter by city and dozens of results will show up for trained psychologists in your area.
An increasing number of therapists are offering their services online, many of whom charge at a heavily discounted rate. Simply filter by city and dozens of results will show up for trained psychologists in your area.
Hotlines
Although many hotlines are managed by people who are not licensed, they are in fact trained. If you are persistent in your search, some of these hotlines do in fact employ professionals. While this may not be a long-term solution, it should be enough to help jump-start and get you on the right path.The bottom line is that it’s important to realize that there are options available for you, even if you’re under the impression that there aren’t. In my experience, taking these opportunities will lead to success. Just don’t give up.