Some people suffer from depression at some stage in their lives and get over it, but for a lot of people, depression becomes overwhelming and has an impact on daily living. Depression is a common mental health condition that impacts how a person thinks and how they behave. It also interferes with how we eat and our sleep patterns and is always accompanied by persistent sadness.

When depression doesn’t go away and symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical help.

Depression Treatment at Liberty Home Clinic

Liberty Home Clinic offers inpatient/residential care for most substance use disorders, including alcohol, mental health conditions and process addiction.

Our upmarket clinic is located in Marina De Gama, Cape Town, South Africa. It is a serene and calming environment with stunning scenery, and it is only a few minutes walk from the beach.

We provide affordable treatment using evidence-based modalities and holistic therapies. Our clinic in Cape Town offers primary care for individuals, whilst our clinic in Belgium provides secondary care to help patients when they are ready to reintegrate back into society.

Liberty Home Clinic - South Africa

We provide primary care at our inpatient clinic for people suffering from substance use disorders, mental health conditions and process addictions such as gambling or gaming.

We admit a maximum of 22 patients at any one time for a duration of at least 28 days up to 8 weeks.

Detox is not provided at our clinic, although we work closely with other institutions that can assist with a medical detox treatment. Stable and drug-free patients can commence their primary care at our clinic.

Liberty Home Secondary - Belgium

Our clinic in Kortrijk, Belgium, provides secondary care only for patients who have completed primary care at our clinic in Cape Town or elsewhere.

Secondary care consists of a treatment option, often called sober living. It consists of two programmes: reintegration care and mindfulness. Reintegration care provides a range of therapies and counselling to help patients learn new coping mechanisms and challenge triggers and cravings. Mindfulness helps patients make choices and live independently.

Secondary care serves as a bridge between the institution and returning home.

Primary Care Treatment at Liberty Home Clinic

People with depression can receive residential primary care at our clinic in South Africa.

We use the Minnesota programme, which is based on the 12-step programme designed by alcoholics anonymous. This includes several evidence-based techniques and resources to effectively treat anxiety and depression as well as other mental health disorders. Some of the methods to help with depression are:

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective techniques and is widely used in treating many disorders. This type of talk therapy helps patients delve deep into their inner selves and identify negative thoughts and behaviours. Adverse thought patterns can then be recognised and changed into more. positive ones to help influence their emotions and behaviours.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) is a form of psychotherapy used primarily to treat personality disorders but has proven effective in treating other mental health conditions. It combines CBT with other concepts of mindfulness and focuses on awareness, resilience, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. It also emphasises a balance between acceptance and change.

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) helps alleviate stress associated with trauma. EMDR involves recalling traumatic events while undergoing bilateral stimulation, like guided eye movements. Used primarily for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is also effective in treating other psychological conditions, and research suggests symptoms can significantly improve after just a few sessions.

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing

Therapy Treatment for Depression

At Liberty Home Clinic, we provide 2 to 3 counselling sessions per week for our residential patients. Professional therapists use evidence-based, holistic therapies, such as yoga or meditation, combined with previously mentioned modalities.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy may also be called counselling or psychotherapy and involves one-on-one sessions between a qualified therapist and a patient. A personalised approach allows individuals to explore thoughts, emotions and behaviours and address symptoms like depression. The objective is to promote personal growth, coping skills and overall well-being.

Group Therapy

Small groups can share experiences and learn from each other’s perspectives. Regular sessions promote camaraderie and support, making individuals feel less isolated and more understood. Group dynamics foster personal growth and allow patients to build confidence. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or psychoeducational therapy is beneficial during a collective group effort.

What Are the Types of Depression?

There are several forms of depression:

Clinical depression (major depressive disorder): The most severe form of depression with intense feelings of sadness, low esteem, disturbed sleeping patterns or changes in appetite. This is the most common type of depression, and symptoms are experienced for at least two weeks.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD): This form is mild to moderate depression but can last for up to two years. Symptoms are similar to major depressive disorder but are less severe.
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD): This type of depression manifests as chronic, intense irritability with frequent outbursts of anger in children and young teens. Symptoms typically appear at the age of 10.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms are accompanied by mood symptoms like anxiety or irritability. They can be severe but can be eased within a few days after a period starts.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): A type of depression caused by seasonal change typically during the autumn and winter months and disappears during the brighter spring and summer seasons.
Prenatal and postpartum depression: Prenatal depression occurs during pregnancy, and postpartum depression can appear within four weeks of giving birth. Both depressions are referred to as major depressive disorder with peripartum onset.
Atypical depression: This type of depression varies slightly from typical depression in so far as there is a temporary mood improvement when exposed to positive events.
Other: People suffering from cancer or other major disease may experience depression, as well as individuals suffering from substance misuse. Treating underlying causes generally improves the symptoms of depression.

How Common is Severe Depression and Who Does it Affect?

Depression in its different forms is very common, and most people will experience some level of depression during their lifetime. Statistics are not accurate as many people do not seek help or find treatment for their symptoms. Indications suggest that 1 in 6 people, including children, will have symptoms at some time.

It is fair to say that individuals with high-risk factors are exposed to developing depression. Some of these health risks include:

Multiple sclerosis
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
Cancer
Stroke
Macular degeneration
Seizures
Chronic pain

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms of depression can be draining and often overwhelming. These are the most common signs and symptoms of depression:

A persistent feeling of sadness, worry or hopelessness
Frustrated and easily irritated
Lack of concentration
Disturbed sleeping patterns
Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Sexual dysfunction, headaches or other physical issues
Suicidal ideation

What Causes Depression?

There is uncertainty as to the cause of depression, but some factors contribute to depression development.

An imbalance of brain chemistry or neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine. Genetics can be responsible for depression if a first-degree relative has the condition, although this is not always the case. Stress, trauma, lack of support or losing a loved one can trigger depression.

Chronic medical conditions can lead to feelings of depression as well as side effects of certain medicines. Alcohol and other substances can favour depression or make it worse.

Living with Depressive Disorder

Living with symptoms of depression can be straining, but the good news is that it can be treated.

Anyone showing symptoms of depression should talk to their healthcare provider or GP, who can give an accurate diagnosis and offer treatment options. Likewise, if treatment for depression is not working or there are other unwanted side effects, it is important to discuss this with your doctor to review the treatment and perhaps change to a different treatment plan.

The worst scenario for anyone suffering from depression is to stay quiet. Enduring symptoms and bottling up concerns and feelings will not solve the condition, and it is unlikely to go away on its own. The sooner a treatment plan is put in place, the quicker you can get better and live a happier and healthier life.

An Affordable Treatment Option at Liberty Home Clinic

Let Liberty Home Clinic help you recover from depression. We provide cost-effective treatment that compares favourably to other luxury rehab facilities offering depression treatment.

Our upmarket facility in Cape Town, South Africa, is the perfect retreat to find calm and serenity away from the city’s hustle and bustle with breathtaking scenery and a short stroll to the beach and coast.

With a maximum of 22 patients at any one time, our dedicated team can concentrate on personal needs to help aid recovery. Our clinic is a secure environment with a lockdown from 22:00 to 7:00, ensuring the safety of our residents. Patients can leave the clinic during the day and participate in hiking, golf, or sightseeing activities.

We provide private or shared accommodation with custom-made meals, internet access and other first-class amenities.

Although we do not perform detox or provide 24/7 medical assistance, we work closely with clinicians, hospitals, and other institutions if needed. Our qualified nurse can administer medication if necessary.

Our team is made up of professionals who are qualified in their field of expertise. What makes them even more special is that they have all recovered from some form of the disorder themselves, enabling them to appreciate what you are going through and offer the best support imaginable.

Please feel free to contact us. Our clinic may seem miles away or out of reach, but with regular, direct flights to Cape Town and our cost-effective treatment programme, we are much closer than you think.

Call us to learn more about us, our facility, and our work. Our friendly staff will happily clarify any questions or concerns you may have and help you make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Depression Diagnosed?

To diagnose depression correctly, a mental health professional carries out a clinical evaluation of the patient’s history and symptoms. Standardised screening questionnaires are also commonly used to identify the presence and severity of symptoms.

Can Depression Be Prevented?

A healthy lifestyle can help prevent depression, such as exercising, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet. Stress management can help reduce tension and other adverse pressures, but early intervention is the best measure for seeking support.

Will I Require Treatment for Mild Depression?

Mild depression is often overlooked and left untreated. Often, symptoms may fade and do not require treatment. However, it is still depression and should not be ignored, especially if symptoms persist, become more intense or affect your daily life.