Depression Treatment in Spokane, Washington

By We Level Up WA | Author Susan Egbert, PharmD | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

Depression does more than cloud your mind, it can darken your entire world. Depression affects millions of Americans each year, yet many suffer in silence. 

The journey toward mental wellness isn’t always straightforward, but with the right support, recovery is possible. 

Understanding Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, major depressive disorder affects approximately 8.3% of all U.S. adults in a given year—that’s about 21 million Americans struggling with this condition.

When depression takes hold, it can manifest in various ways:

These symptoms persist for weeks or months, significantly interfering with your ability to function. Depression can strain relationships, reduce productivity at work, and even impact your physical health. Research shows people with depression have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population.

What makes depression particularly challenging is how it distorts your thinking. It can convince you that things won’t get better or that you’re somehow unworthy of help. 

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• Depressive Episode Treatment

Causes and Risk Factors of Depression

Depression rarely has a single cause. Instead, it typically results from a complex interplay of factors unique to each person. Understanding these factors can help demystify the condition and highlight why professional treatment is so important.

Biological factors often play a significant role. Your brain chemistry, including imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, can contribute to depression symptoms. Genetics matter too: if depression runs in your family, you may have a higher risk. In fact, research suggests depression is about 40% determined by genetic factors.

Life circumstances can trigger depressive episodes. Major life changes (even positive ones), chronic stress, trauma, or loss can all precipitate depression in vulnerable individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, saw depression rates triple nationwide, showing how environmental factors can dramatically impact mental health.

Medical conditions sometimes contribute to depression as well. Chronic pain, thyroid disorders, heart disease, and certain neurological conditions can either cause depressive symptoms or make them worse. People with chronic health conditions have been researched to have about two to three times higher rates of depression.

Depression often doesn’t travel alone. Many people with depression also struggle with anxiety disorders, while many others face substance use challenges. These co-occurring conditions can complicate both diagnosis and treatment.

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Treatment

Treatment typically involves medication, therapy, or both. Complementary therapies can support these two evidence-based interventions.

Medication Management

For many clients, medication plays a crucial role in depression recovery. These include:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine or sertraline
• Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) such as venlafaxine or duloxetine
• Atypical antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or other medications based on your specific needs

Holistic and Integrative Approaches

True healing encompasses mind, body, and spirit. Many people benefit from things like:

• Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques
• Yoga and movement therapy to reduce stress and improve mood
• Nutritional counseling to support brain health
• Art and music therapy for emotional expression
• Outdoor activities that harness the healing power of nature

Dual-Diagnosis Treatment

For clients struggling with both depression and substance use disorders, our specialized dual-diagnosis program addresses both conditions simultaneously. This integrated approach prevents the cycle where untreated depression leads to substance use, or vice versa.

Evidence-Based Psychotherapy

Talk therapy forms the cornerstone of depression treatment.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to depression
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Teaches mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness
• Interpersonal Therapy: Focuses on improving communication patterns and resolving relationship issues that may worsen depression

These therapies provide skills and strategies you can use throughout your life to prevent relapse.

Inpatient Treatment

When depression becomes overwhelming or outpatient care isn’t enough, our inpatient treatment program provides the intensive support and structure needed to facilitate healing. Located on our peaceful Spokane campus, this residential program offers a respite from daily stressors and triggers that may contribute to your depression.

The decision to enter inpatient treatment is significant, but for many, it’s a turning point in their recovery journey. Our program is particularly beneficial for those experiencing:

• Severe depression symptoms that interfere with basic functioning
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Depression complicated by co-occurring disorders
• Previous unsuccessful attempts at outpatient treatment
• Need for medication adjustments in a monitored environment

Our facility itself supports the healing process. Private and semi-private rooms provide comfortable spaces for rest and reflection. Communal areas encourage healthy social interaction, often a challenge for those with depression. Outdoor spaces offer connection with nature, which research shows can significantly improve mood and mental well-being.

The immersive nature of inpatient treatment creates a unique opportunity to focus entirely on your recovery, free from the distractions and responsibilities of everyday life. This concentrated therapeutic experience often leads to breakthroughs that might take months or years to achieve in less intensive settings.

The Role of Family and Community

Depression impacts entire families and social networks. Family participation can dramatically improve treatment outcomes. When loved ones understand depression, its causes, symptoms, and treatment, they’re better equipped to provide meaningful support. 

A comprehensive family program includes:

• Educational sessions about depression and recovery
• Family therapy to address relationship dynamics that may contribute to or result from depression
• Communication skills training to improve how family members interact
• Resources for family members to maintain their own well-being while supporting you

We work with families of all kinds, including traditional families, chosen families, partners, and close friends who form your support network. These connections become even more vital after treatment, when having people who understand your journey can make all the difference in maintaining recovery.

Beyond family, we emphasize the power of community in the healing process. Through group therapy and peer support, you’ll connect with others facing similar challenges. These connections often become profound sources of hope and understanding. Sometimes, the first time you truly feel “seen” in your struggle with depression.

By strengthening these connections to family, peers, and the broader recovery community, you can help ensure that the end of formal treatment doesn’t mean the end of support. Instead, you’ll leave with an enhanced network of understanding people who can walk alongside you as you continue your journey toward lasting mental wellness.

Why Choose We Level Up Washington for Depression Treatment

Choosing the right treatment center is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your recovery journey. At We Level Up Washington, we’ve created a depression treatment program that stands apart through our unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, compassionate care, and comprehensive support.

What truly sets us apart, though, is our people. Our staff members have chosen this field because they genuinely care about helping others overcome mental health challenges. Many have personal connections to mental health recovery, bringing both professional expertise and authentic empathy to their work.

Our Spokane facility offers an environment specifically designed to support healing. From comfortable private and semi-private rooms to thoughtfully designed common areas, every aspect of our campus contributes to a sense of safety and serenity. Amenities like chef-prepared meals, comfortable lounges, and beautiful outdoor spaces enhance your experience and allow you to focus entirely on recovery.

We recognize that depression treatment isn’t just about addressing symptoms. It’s about building a foundation for lasting wellness. That’s why our program includes:

• Comprehensive discharge planning that begins from day one
• Connection to community resources for ongoing support
• Family education and therapy to strengthen your support system
• Alumni programs that provide continued connection and accountability

The result is a treatment experience that addresses not just where you are now, but where you want to go, creating a bridge between the challenges of depression and the fulfilling life you deserve.

Taking the First Step: How to Start Depression Treatment

The hardest part of getting help for depression is often making that initial call. Depression tells you that nothing will help, that you don’t deserve support, or that your situation is hopeless. We’re here to tell you: those thoughts are symptoms of your depression, not reality.

Taking that first step toward treatment is an act of courage, one that can change the course of your life. At We Level Up Washington, we’ve made the process as straightforward and supportive as possible. 

Contact us today at (509)-348-4077 to hear more from a real person who understands what you’re going through. No judgment, just compassion and clear information.

From the moment you contact us, you’re no longer facing depression alone. Our admissions team will guide you through each step, answering questions and addressing concerns along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Hotline: (509) 348-4077