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Depression

Depression can feel like a heavy fog that drains the color from life, making even small tasks feel impossible. It’s more than just sadness, it’s an exhausting weight that can leave you feeling isolated and hopeless. We want you to know two things: you are not alone, and it is possible to feel like yourself again.

Understanding the Impact of Depression

We probably don’t need to tell you about the debilitating effects of depression. It is one of the leading causes of disability in our country. U.S. Health authorities carefully track the links between depression and our nation’s rising suicide rate, which in 2017 was at its highest in 50 years: 14 deaths per 100,000 people.

No one should pay the ultimate price of depression by succumbing to suicide. Nor should you lose the enjoyment of life by simply putting up with chronic depression. Depression is a thief that robs you of your personal and professional fulfillment, causing any number of health conditions to worsen.

Snowstorm in Colorado representing depression or anxiety

Common Signs That It Could Be Depression

Depression is a master of disguise. It doesn’t always show up as profound sadness. Often, it’s a slow erosion of joy, energy, and connection that can be hard to recognize from the inside. See if any of the following experiences feel familiar:

  • A persistent feeling of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed.
  • Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or too little).
  • Fatigue and a profound lack of energy.
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
  • Withdrawing from friends and family.
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
A woman walking out from darkness into light illustrating the positive impact of depression therapy.

Why Choose Ignite for Treating Your Depression?

You deserve more than just managing symptoms. You deserve true, lasting recovery. Our approach focuses on healing the root causes of your depression. We don’t just help you feel better now; we equip you with the tools and resilience to thrive for years to come.

Here’s what sets the Ignite approach apart:

We heal the root, not just the symptom. Because depression is often rooted in trauma, we go beyond just coping skills. We use powerful methods like Trauma-Informed Care and EMDR to find and heal the source of the pain, creating more profound and sustainable change than managing thought patterns alone can offer.

We treat you as a whole person. Your mental and physical health are deeply connected. That’s why we take a holistic approach, looking beyond talk therapy to consider the roles of nutrition, sleep, and overall health in your recovery. We’ll encourage a full physical to ensure no stone is left unturned.

crocus blooming in snow to represent the relief that comes from therapy from Ignite Colorado

Exploring All Your Treatment Options

What about medication?

This is probably the most common question we get from clients who are suffering from depression. Our standard answer is “it depends.” It is vital to some and definitely not for others. It is important to note that as a psychotherapist, we are not licensed to prescribe or promote medication. Our role is to educate and refer out to specialists, while providing the therapeutic counseling piece.

A therapist taking notes during a session next to a patient about treatment options and medication.

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is another new development that uses magnetic pulses pinpointed on key areas of the brain. This treatment stimulates neurotransmitters in the brain without relying on medication, such as SSRIs. It is safe and relatively free of side effects, plus it is covered by most insurances. We are happy to refer you to a TMS center.

What about alternative drug treatments for depression?

There is promising new research using drugs like cannabis, Ketamine, MDMA and psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. An abundance of caution should be accorded psychedelics, which carry real risks and are formally designated Schedule I drugs. Still, we remain open-minded to these options, as long as they are being administered by a licensed and trained professional.

Addressing Common Concerns

Not all depression is deep-rooted, permanent or pathological. Whether your depression has a physical basis or is a combination of biological, psychological and social factors, there are a variety of treatment options available. We utilize many of our evidence-based therapies in our practice, given their effectiveness treating deep-seated traumas that sometimes manifest as depression.

What role does nutrition play?

Last, but not least: We will ask you when you had your last thorough physical. Deficiencies in thyroid function, vitamins d and b can mimic depression, or make the condition worse. We will look at the role that nutrition and exercise play in supporting a healthier and happier you.

Treatment options for depression, illustrated by an uplifting photo of pink flowers reaching towards a bright blue, sunny sky.

Conveniently Located in Denver Metro

We are committed to making depression treatment accessible. You can meet with our expert therapists at our conveniently located offices in Denver and Boulder counties.

Exterior of a modern office building with a concrete courtyard and large windows.

Situated just off US-36, our Westminster office provides care to clients in Westminster, Broomfield, Arvada, Northglenn, and nearby North Metro Denver communities.

Exterior of Ignite Counseling Denver

Our Denver office is positioned to serve clients throughout Southeast Denver, Greenwood Village, Centennial, and the surrounding South Metro communities.

Exterior of Ignite Counseling Longmont

Our Longmont office is conveniently located to serve individuals and families across Longmont, Niwot, Frederick, Firestone, and neighboring Boulder County communities.

Take the First Step Today

Taking the first step is often the hardest part, but it’s a courageous move toward reclaiming your life. We invite you to schedule a free, confidential phone consultation to learn more about how we can help.

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