Psychotherapy in the treatment of depression

Depression is an illness that affects millions of people around the world. It is not a temporary sadness, but a serious mental disorder that affects every sphere of life – from everyday activities to relationships with others. 

Psychotherapy for depression is recognised as one of the key treatment methods, alongside pharmacotherapy. Clinical trials confirm its high efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms, improving patient functioning and preventing disease relapse.

At the MECAL Psychological Clinic in Gdańsk, we apply proven, evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and other integrated therapeutic methods. Psychotherapeutic support helps patients not only to reduce symptoms, but also to understand the mechanisms leading to illness and to acquire skills for coping with emotional difficulties.

What causes depression?

Depression has many causes – biological, psychological and social alike. Genetic factors, neurotransmitter imbalances (including serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine) and abnormalities in the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis can predispose individuals to the onset of depression.

Her development is also influenced by life experiences such as trauma, chronic stress, the loss of a loved one, interpersonal relationship conflicts, or low self-esteem. In the therapeutic process, we help patients understand which of these factors may be dominant in their case.

What symptoms indicate depression – how to distinguish sadness from depression?

Each of us sometimes experiences sadness, but depression is much more than a temporary low mood. Symptoms of depression include a long-lasting feeling of lowness, loss of interest in everyday activities, lack of energy, sleep disorders (insomnia or excessive sleepiness), difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, and sometimes suicidal thoughts.

If these symptoms persist for a longer period – a minimum of two weeks – they may indicate depression. It is important not to trivialise these signals and to seek help as soon as possible.

Can we effectively treat depression?

Yes, depression can be effectively treated, although the process may take time and require commitment. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment may involve psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Clinical trials indicate that the optimal therapeutic effect is achieved with the simultaneous use of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication. Psychotherapy not only helps in alleviating symptoms, but also equips the patient with tools that prevent relapses of the illness.

How to treat depression effectively – psychotherapy and medication

  • Treatment for depression often requires a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Antidepressants help to regulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain, which can alleviate the symptoms of the illness. However, medication alone does not solve the problem.
  • Psychotherapy helps the patient understand the causes of depression and learn new ways of coping with emotions.
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most frequently recommended psychotherapeutic methods in the treatment of depression, as it enables the modification of negative thinking patterns and introduces more adaptive coping strategies.

Which is more effective in the treatment of depression – individual or group psychotherapy?

Both individual and group psychotherapy can be effective in treating depression. Individual therapy allows one to focus on a person's specific issues and work through them in a deeper way.

In turn, group psychotherapy provides a sense of community and support, which can be particularly important for people who feel alone in their struggle with depression.

Which psychotherapy is most effective in treating depression?

In the treatment of depression, cognitive behavioural therapies (CBT) are most commonly used, which focus on changing negative thoughts and behaviours, as well as interpersonal therapy, which helps to improve interpersonal relationships.

Every patient is different, which is why the choice of therapeutic method depends on the specific nature of the problems. CBT is particularly effective in treating depression because it teaches patients how to recognise and change thoughts that maintain negative emotions.

What does a therapy session look like?

During a therapy session at MECAL, patients have the opportunity to talk about their difficulties, emotions and thoughts. The therapist not only listens, but also guides the conversation in such a way as to help patients understand their problems and find solutions.

In cognitive behavioural therapy, the patient learns to recognise automatic, negative thoughts that affect their mood, and develops skills to modify them. Sessions may vary depending on the therapeutic technique, but they are always focused on supporting the patient and helping them cope with the symptoms of depression. The initial visit is usually diagnostic, which allows for the selection of an appropriate form of therapy.

How long can depression treatment last?

The duration of depression treatment depends on its severity and the patient's response to therapy. Short-term treatment can last from several to a dozen or so sessions, particularly in cases of mild forms of depression.

In cases of chronic or severe depression, therapy may take longer – from several months to several years. An important element of the treatment process is the regularity of sessions and the patient's engagement in therapy, which increases the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.

How often do the meetings take place?

Therapy sessions usually take place once a week, which allows for systematic work on problems. However, the frequency of visits can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient – in some cases, the therapist may recommend more frequent sessions, especially at the beginning of treatment. The regularity of meetings is crucial to ensure the continuity of therapy and the monitoring of progress.

How to recognise depression in children? Treatment of depression in children and adolescents

Depression doesn't just affect adults – children and young people can also suffer from this disorder. Symptoms of depression in younger people can include irritability, social withdrawal, difficulties at school, and even changes in appetite or sleep.

At the MECAL Psychological Clinic in Gdańsk, we offer specialist psychotherapy for children and adolescents, tailored to their age and needs, taking into account their developmental requirements. Treating depression in younger patients requires not only therapeutic work with the child, but also support for the family.

Can depression be treated through online sessions?

  • Yes, psychotherapy for depression can be just as effective online as it is in a traditional consulting room. At the MECAL Psychological Clinic, we offer online therapy sessions for patients who, for various reasons, are unable to attend face-to-face appointments. Online therapy provides flexibility while ensuring full therapeutic support, regardless of the patient's location.

Beck Depression Inventory - what is it?

  • The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) is one of the most widely used diagnostic tools for assessing the severity of depression symptoms. It consists of 21 questions that allow for the evaluation of various aspects of depression, such as mood, feelings of guilt, fatigue, difficulty concentrating and changes in sleep patterns. The test score makes it possible to determine the degree of depression severity – ranging from mild, through moderate, to severe. At the MECAL Psychological Clinic, the Beck test can be used as part of a depression diagnosis, which allows for more precise therapy planning and monitoring of the patient's progress. 

Book an appointment at the MECAL Psychological Clinic in Gdańsk

If you suspect that you or a loved one is showing symptoms of depression, do not delay in taking action. Effective treatment of depression requires an early diagnosis and appropriate support.

At the MECAL Psychological Clinic in Gdańsk, we offer professional psychotherapy based on proven scientific methods, individually tailored to the needs of each patient. Our team of psychotherapists will help you regain control over your life and improve the quality of your daily functioning.

Call, write or book an online appointment – we are here to help you.

Every day is a chance for change – take the first step today

If you feel that depression is making your daily life difficult and robbing you of the joy you used to get from things you once enjoyed, you don’t have to cope with it on your own. Psychotherapy offers support, understanding and practical tools to help you cope with this difficult condition.

Don't wait until the problems become even more overwhelming. Book an appointment and give yourself a chance for a fresh start.