What should you know about therapy for depression?

A therapist may help you notice links between thoughts, feelings, behaviour, relationships, and daily routines. Cognitive behavioural therapy can address harsh self-judgement and withdrawal; interpersonal approaches may focus on loss, conflict, or role changes. Therapy can also include problem-solving, behavioural activation, and relapse planning. Depression may occur alongside feeling anxious, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, or changes in sleep, and these concerns can be discussed together.

Begin with a general practitioner, psychiatrist, or qualified therapist who can assess your symptoms and discuss suitable options. Ask about the therapy format, session frequency, goals, confidentiality, and what to do between sessions. Some people use therapy alone; others need medication, physical-health checks, or coordinated support. Keep appointments, note changes in mood and sleep, and say if the approach does not feel helpful.

Seek emergency help now if you may harm yourself, cannot stay safe, or have made a suicide plan. Contact a clinician urgently for rapidly worsening depression, severe inability to eat or sleep, or unusual energy with very little need for sleep. Do not wait for a routine therapy appointment when immediate safety is a concern.

Ask which therapy best matches your symptoms, how progress will be reviewed, and whether medication or a physical assessment should be considered. Mention daytime sleepiness, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, anxiety, or concentration problems so the plan addresses the whole picture.