I went to therapy for depression for a brief period at the end of 2005/beginning of 2006. I think just the fact that I was reaching out to try to do something about my depression was more helpful than anything that actually happened while chatting with the therapist. I never knew what to talk about and she wasn’t very good about asking questions. She mostly told me how great and smart I was, which I suppose is nice and all, but that’s not why I was there. Unless that’s some kind of weird version of therapy.

But I’ve known friends who have found it wonderfully helpful. Depends on why you want to go, what you’re willing to put into it and if you find a good therapist, really.

i went to therapy too, and it helped me a lot...but you have to have an open mind towards it too. Don't be sceptical or something, otherwise it won't help. I always think, you should do what makes you feel better, if it doesn't work you can always quit, but at least try it...there's nothing wrong to go in therapy. It's the opposite: its wrong to say "I don't need help, I can do it all on your own", when sometimes you can't and need help...

Yes.

CarrieMpls said:

I admire you for that

As much as its a popular idea and SOOOO very orthodox to seek therapy's help, I can't do it And I need it since I suffer from depression as well.

I rarely open up to close family, much less a stranger,,,,yeah I know "its easier to talk to a stranger" but I've always been reluctant about it.

I wish I could pull the guts to do it though.

Yes

CarrieMpls said:

half the time admitting to yourself that you need "help" is help in itself.
lets you step back and assess things in a different light.
counselling (and anti depressants) worked better for me than psychs, psychs just want to pop u full of tranquillizers

Goodluck PurpleLove

You just talk about your problems. Everybody could use a little of that.

Yes. A really good therapist will not try to solve your problems, but ask you the questions that will facilitate your own solution. Therapists can be great because, unlike friends or family, they are removed from the situation and can be impartial.

I wish you luck. The last therapist I had did me a world of good.

Yes

I go and, as CarrieMPLS suggested, the mere acknowledgement of a problem and the sense of agency in appropriately dealing with it can be quite powerful even separate of any therapeutic efficacy.

By all means give it an earnest try.

It can be helpful... You need to find the right counselor and/or therapist that fits with you... It isn't a fix-all for long-term problems but it can help as much as you will let it. If your depression is long term you definitely need to seek help...you might not need it forever though. It certainly can't hurt! Hearing that so many others have resorted to counseling and treatment sure helps when you go for the first time, that's for sure!

Yes. I have gone to therapy on a few separate occasions throughout my life. If you seek help through therapy, it helps to keep an open mind.Be patient, honest and if you do not feel comfortable with the person switch to someone you can open up to.

Do not feel ashamed to reach out.
I found keeping a journal helped to get some key thoughts to the surface to have something to discuss.

Harlepolis said:

If you're already aware that you suffer from depression you really owe it to yourself to do it

I've gone, it was really helpful

I went for a while to help with depression and alcoholism and because my life was a tad out of control.

It helped.

yes, therapy can help. it is good to get an 'outside' perspective from someone who is trained in seeing and presenting such.

that being said, you have to find the right fit, therapist-wise. good luck and hang in there

do prostitutes count as therapy?