by Jessica Mercure, RN, MA, MFT
Depression is a very painful state experienced by millions of people of all ages and walks of life. More than just "the blues", depression feels like a restriction of physical energy, life force and emotion. In severe cases it can be life-threatening, but even mild cases robs the person of pleasure, energy, focus and anticipation of anything positive. It can harm relationships and careers.
Losses, such as loss of a relationship, a job, health or especially hope can trigger an episode of depression or form the basis for one years later. But not all losses lead to depression, and not all depression can be traced to a specific loss. There are many factors involved in creating depression, and many factors in healing depression.
Bonding Psychotherapy addresses the mind, body, emotions and sense of community in the treatment of depression.
The mind is addressed by identifying harmful and inaccurate beliefs and attitudes that perpetuate the depression, and beginning a process of introducing and reinforcing more accurate and life-sustaining thoughts. In this sense, it is similar to various cognitive therapies. However, BP applies an understanding that there is an emotional memory area in the brain that is distinct from intellectual memory. Emotional memory may be buried, but it is a powerful motivating force. By integrating the emotional work with the cognitive work, the change process is faster, more intense and more efficient. In BP participants use specific emotional exercises to connect their own emotional states and emotional memory with new resources such as awareness of current strengths and options, group support and healthier beliefs they wish to adopt.
Emotions are central to treatment of depression in BP. Many clinicians believe that one important dynamic of depression is the stuffing or forgetting of profound emotions. Anger turned inward against oneself is often cited as a causative factor in depression, as is unresolved grief. Some therapists feel that any emotion that is pushed away firmly enough depletes the person of energy and can lead to depression. Emotions are important sources of information to be accepted and understood. Although of course emotions should be acted upon only in responsible ways, they must not be permanently ignored or shut off. Repressed emotions diminish our own self-awareness, decrease our empathy for ourselves and others, and can lead to inner conflicts, depression and a sense of powerlessness. In BP, we look for the hidden emotions and find safe ways to share and release them. The acceptance of emotions and emotional needs by others creates relief, healing, insight and empathy.
The body is very involved in depression, and there are chemical changes in the brain, such as a lower level of the neurotransmitter serotonin, that are associated with the depressive symptoms. The cathartic release of deep emotions is a very physical experience leading to a sense of relief and joy as well as real changes in body chemistry. When this catharsis is accompanied with or followed by close physical holding, or Bonding, even more benefit is derived, both physically and emotionally. (BP uses these tools when the participant chooses them and with a clear respect for his or her boundaries). A sense of deep happiness can spring from these experiences. Even if none of the objective circumstances in the participants life have changed, his or her feelings change, giving energy and hope and new perspective. Cognitive and behavioral change can then build on this foundation.
The BP process recognizes human beings' deep need for emotional connection and community. It is designed to help each person connect more deeply with others when they choose to do so. In depression, there is often a sense of alienation or aloneness. Sometimes it is accompanied by a sense that "something is really wrong with me; nobody could love me if they really knew me." The empathy and caring that spring naturally from the process is deeply healing to the depressed individual. A sense of community and deep connection is characteristic of the NIP group. Trust develops in oneself, the process, and one's ability to be close, and this transfers to life outside the group with practice.
In addressing mind, emotion, body, and community, BP offers a rich, multidimensional treatment for depression.
