How Psychotherapy Helps People Recover From Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 17 million adult Americans suffer from depression during any one year period. Many do not even recognize that they have a condition that can be treated very effectively. This question-and-answer fact sheet discusses depression with focus on ways in which psychotherapy can help a depressed person.

How does depression differ from occasional sadness?

Everyone feels sad or "blue" on occasion. Most people grieve over upsetting life experiences such as a major illness, loss of job, a death in the family, or divorce. These feelings