Mindfulness Therapy As Part of Depression Counseling

Depression is a psychiatric disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or guilt. You might feel angry and empty for no reason. But depression can also cause other problems such as difficulty thinking and concentrating and a decrease in your appetite.

There are several different treatment options for depression. One such method is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). This type of therapy works by showing the patient how to use the concept of mindfulness meditation for interrupting and alleviating the subconscious underpinnings of depression. Research has consistently shown that depression in those with a history of it experience low mood along with negative memories and thoughts. This negative cognitive state can cause a persistent malaise that is hard to shake, but the MBCT approach has proven to be remarkable effective.

MBCT works by allowing the patient to distance him or herself from the cesspit of negative thoughts and moods. Under this framework, people can be trained to see themselves as being separate from these destructive thought patterns. In essence, this therapy works by using a combination of cognitive strategies and meditative awareness. It imparts the philosophy that awareness can exist above the depression, critically evaluating it with a non-judgmental eye that is aimed toward healing rather than negative self-assessment.

Different techniques for meditation therapy can be used in counseling sessions, such as breathing exercises and yoga. As each patient is an individual, different exercises might show varying levels of efficiency. In other words, it is worth it to try the full spectrum of techniques to assess which meditative exercises reap the most psychological benefits.

Keep in mind that mindfulness therapy can be used as either the primary treatment for depression or in combination with other therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy.

Do you live in the Fresno, California area? Do you suffer from depression? Please, contact us.