Is Depression Treatment Expensive

Treatment of depressive disorders is the most expensive among all mental illnesses including substance addiction. With more than 70 billion dollars spent by the United States for depression treatment, it ranks close to the most popular health conditions worldwide such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

However, the cost of being left untreated ultimately outweighs the cost of getting treatment in the long run. With the ability to work effectively at stake, it is best to consider treatment and take back one’s life rather than to continue wallowing in a depressive state which only leads to impairment and worse, death.

How Much Does Depression Treatment Cost

The treatment includes medication, therapy, and self-care and the cost varies depending on many factors. Insurance companies act as a great partner in limiting the amount that comes out of one’s pocket upon treatment, yet the personal choice of self-care is also another factor that adds up to the price.

However, several studies have shown that the great benefit of getting into treatment is the ability of the person diagnosed with depression to optimize oneself in working effectively and eventually earn enough to sustain into treatment. A lot of testimonials suggest that treatment is worth all the sum invested into it.

Treatment with Medication

The first phase of the treatment once clinically diagnosed with a depressive disorder is the prescription of antidepressants. The effectiveness of antidepressants varies significantly among individuals. Some may need to switch brands during treatment while some may even require more than one medicine. Others may also be given higher doses over time.

Considering these factors, the amount spent on medication will not always be the same among patients. But having insurance certainly makes one enjoy the benefit of significantly cutting the cost. The price of branded antidepressants may range from $200 to $2000 a month while generic names range from $4 to $130 a month.

Looking at these figures may be overwhelming but it is important to note that there are plenty of options available to reduce the cost of treatment. Seeking the guidance of a health professional is the first step to removing your apprehensions. You may discuss with your physician how to avail of Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) to get the medicines you need.

Treatment with Therapy

Psychotherapy sessions are as essential as taking medications. It helps an individual understand triggers to personal battles and eventually be able to combat oneself on occasions when these triggers arise. A session can be with a psychiatrist or a psychologist and this can run from weeks to months or years, depending on the needs of the patient.

The average cost of therapists would be $100 per hour and this could vary depending on the expertise and reputation of the chosen therapist. All procedures required by a therapist must be followed through for the treatment to be effective. It would be a total waste of the cost if scheduled sessions would be missed.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers referrals to local health departments that cater to low-cost therapies of low-income households. This could be an option for those who have no insurance coverage. There are also virtual therapies available nowadays which are more affordable.

Treatment with Self-care

There are instances when medications can be substituted by exercise and this is what self-care is all about. It is a way of nourishing the body and mind by engaging in a healthy lifestyle. Physical activities such as going to the gym and enrolling in yoga classes are one of the means. Others also resort to meditations, avoiding isolation, and eating healthy.

Contrary to medication and therapy, self-care is no longer covered by any insurance at all. It is a product of personal choice which comes with an added cost. Some individuals spend a great amount to achieve a healthy diet by maintaining herbal supplements, vitamins, and minerals, and even spending daily on fruits and vegetables.

Going to the gym and enrolling in yoga classes also comes with a price. Some individuals purchase books while others purchase devices that help treat their condition. The Fisher Wallace Stimulator is one example of a technology that can be worn and treats anxiety and depression by sending electric pulses to the brain.

Self-care does come with an extra amount yet individuals enjoy its benefits as it allows them to overcome their condition naturally and empowers them by gaining a sense of control in their treatment. A lot of people can attest how treatment with self-care has improved their quality of life and it is worth all the spending.

The Downsides of Depression

Depression left untreated can negatively impact a person’s life. It affects productivity at work as well as relationships with others. It poses a great threat to life as it can lead a person to substance abuse and suicidal attempts. On top of that, it affects sleep patterns which result in drastic weight gain or loss as well as difficulty focusing and making sound decisions.

This is the reason why a lot of individuals diagnosed with depression resort to getting treated right away despite the extent of the cost. The advantage of treatment surpasses the disadvantage of the cost. Depression, no matter how grave the condition, is treatable and there are multiple options to get into treatment.

With the US government supporting the mental welfare of the people by providing federal policies that make treatment more accessible and affordable, there is no reason to endure the struggle of depression for a long time. Talk to a professional healthcare provider for several options for treating your depression disorder immediately.

Apart from acting as a personal battle, depression also causes a strain on the country’s economy since government spending has reached more than $40 billion to cope with productivity loss and direct treatments. When left untreated, depression causes a rippling effect on the community.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from depressive disorder, call for professional help now!