Overcoming Depression – How long does it take?

Depression is a deeply personal matter. For those that are suffering from it, it’s normal to ask questions such as ‘how long will I have this?’, ‘how long until I feel better?’, or ‘will it come back?’.

There is no certain timeline for recovery. Everyone’s starting point and path is different. Yet, that timeline is heavily influenced by a few factors. And the encouraging news is that you can directly affect a couple of these factors, significantly decreasing the time it takes to find relief.

Severity
As you might guess, the severity of one’s depression is a key factor. A mild case of depression may resolve relatively quickly, sometimes within a few weeks or months. Severe depression might result in a much longer battle, often lasting for years. Matters of the mind tend to defy an exact timeframe for recovery, and some individuals just respond much more quickly to treatment.

Support
One’s support system is an important factor in the recovery process. Friends and family play a critical role in the recovery process, often providing emotional support and encouragement. And while we cannot choose our family, we do have a say in our friendships. Individuals with a strong support network often find it a bit easier to navigate the challenges brought on by depression. Conversely, individuals lacking support may experience a longer and more challenging journey to recovery.

Mindset
It’s fair to say that in order to achieve change, we have to be open to and work towards change. Working with a professional, lifestyle changes, implementing coping strategies – and at times medication – can all contribute to managing and, hopefully, overcoming depression. It’s not always easy, and seeking help can be the most difficult and most important first step. Those that are proactive, however, and want to take control of their situation tend to recover the quickest.

The path to overcoming depression is unpredictable and different for each of us. There is no set timeline for recovery. But we do have a say in all of it, and that’s something to take comfort in.

Karen is a compassionate, experienced, and licensed counselor in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She focuses on providing effective treatment for Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression.