What is Behavioral Activation? When it comes to treating depression, most mental health professionals talk about either medications or therapies such as cognitive therapy. These are, no doubt, clinically relevant treatments for depression. However, with the recent emphasis on treating the "chemical imbalance," simple treatments for depression such as behavioral activation have been sidelined. Behavioral activation is an evidenced-based treatment for depression and complements other treatments of depression (American Psychiatric Association, 2010). In fact, research demonstrates that in individuals with severe depression, behavioral activation is comparable to antidepressant medication and better than Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Dimidjian et al., 2006). Avoidance is a key target for change in behavioral activation. The lack of energy and motivation in depression can result in people with depression either cutting back on pleasurable activities or not enjoying them as they
Written by a board-certified psychiatrist and an expert on self-management of depression, Harpreet Duggal, MD, this blog focuses on practical and proven methods of treating depression that go beyond medications and traditional therapy. It discusses elements of healthy lifestyle, positive psychology, relationships, values, strengths, communication, and wellness. No AI-assisted technology has been used in this blog. The content of the blog is not to be construed as treatment advice.