Psychotherapy can involve only the individual patient or include others. Family or couples therapy helps to address specific issues that can arise within these close relationships. Group therapy involves people with similar illnesses. Depending on the severity of the depression, treatment can take a few weeks or substantially longer. However, in many cases, significant improvement can be made in 10-15 sessions.
Depression is never normal and always produces needless suffering.
With proper diagnosis and treatment, depression can be overcome in the vast majority of people. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, see your physician or psychiatrist, describe your concerns, and request a thorough evaluation. You will feel better. Produced by the APA Joint Commission on Public Affairs and the Division of Public Affairs. This pamphlet was developed for educational purposes and does not necessarily reflect opinion or policy of the American Psychiatric Association.