The American Psychiatric Association characterizes major depressive disorder as a common but very serious mental illness that affects a patient’s actions, thoughts, and feelings. In fact, depression impacts every aspect of a patient’s life, however, thankfully it is very treatable with help from a qualified mental health professional or team. Yet oftentimes, individuals recognize symptoms of depression yet are hesitant to reach out for help. Luckily, online depression counselling is making it easier and more convenient for patients to seek help from a qualified therapist.

Here are the many reasons patients seek out depression counselling online:

1. For patients with anxiety
For many patients seeking help, depression and anxiety go hand in hand, making even more scary and intimidating to physically go to a medical office to seek cognitive behavioral therapy with a mental health professional. For many the idea of online counselling with a qualified therapist is much safer and more comfortable. Patients can schedule video chat or even phone sessions from the comfort of their own home to get the help they need sooner.

2. More frequent appointments
Many brick and mortar therapy offices are only open Monday to Friday during regular business hours. However, many patients work those same hours and cannot miss work or other responsibilities to travel to therapy. On the other hand, many online counsellors are offering online sessions during off hours or even on weekends in order to make themselves available to patients who need more frequent professional attention outside or normal business hours, such as in the evenings or on weekends. This also allows more flexibility for patients to get help if they suddenly suffer an emergency situation.

3. Geographical convenience
Many patients have difficulty finding a qualified therapist that works for their needs if they live in more remote locations. Therefore, they may not go out and get the help that they need. However, online counselling for depression is making it convenient for patients to undergo cognitive behavioral therapy via video chat from their home. So if they don’t drive or can’t get transportation to an actual physical office, they can still get professional help online, any time of day.

4. Qualified professionals
More and more professional therapists are offering video chat or phone call appointments in order to help a greater number of patients. Afterall, patients from remote locations may be limited in the help they can find, but offering therapy sessions online opens the door to help from numerous qualified therapists that suit your unique patient needs.