A Fresh Start for Your Mental Health 

Each January offers an opportunity for renewal, inviting us to reflect, reset, and connect to our personal well-being. At The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, we encourage our community to give the same attention to mental health as they do to other aspects of health.

Integrated Evidence-Based Treatment for Depression

Effective treatment for depression and many other mental health conditions often involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy, tailored to the individual’s needs, severity of symptoms, and preferences. For adults with depression, both antidepressant medications (such as SSRIs, SNRIs, bupropion, mirtazapine, and others) and evidence-based psychotherapies (like cognitive behavioral therapy [CBT], interpersonal therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies) are considered first-line treatments. Research shows that combining medication and psychotherapy leads to higher response and remission rates, about 65%, compared to 50% for either treatment alone, especially in moderate to severe or chronic depression. This combination is also associated with more durable benefits and lower relapse rates over time.

 Treatment selection should be individualized. For mild depression, psychotherapy alone is often sufficient. For moderate to severe depression, combination therapy is recommended. If initial treatment with one approach is not effective, adding the other can improve outcomes. Medication choice is typically guided by side effect profiles, patient comorbidities, and prior response, with escitalopram and sertraline noted for their efficacy and tolerability.

 Integrated care models and wraparound services bring together therapy, medication management, and social support, alongside coordinated physical health and psychiatric care. This approach helps people get better results, especially if they have complex needs or more than one condition.

How The Harris Center Puts Research into Practice

At The Harris Center, our Behavioral Health Outpatient Services are built around this model of integrated, coordinated care. Each person receives a customized plan that may include:

• Individual or group therapy led by licensed clinicians who specialize in evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed therapy.
• Medication management with psychiatrists and nurse practitioners who work closely with therapists to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
• Case management and wraparound supports to help with housing, employment, and other social needs that affect recovery.
• Harris Center Integrated Care Clinics, where physical and behavioral health services are offered together to treat the whole person.
• Specialized programs for co-occurring substance use, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and justice-involved individuals.

Building Healthy Habits for 2026: Mental Health Self-Check:

The start of a new year is the perfect time to check in on your mental health routine. Ask yourself:

✓ How do I know if my medications are still the right fit for me? 

If you notice changes in how you feel, or are experiencing new side effects, it is important to talk with your care team. Adjustments are always available and your experience matters. You will never be judged for seeking additional support.

✓ I have missed some therapy sessions. Is it okay to restart?

Absolutely. Life gets busy and priorities shift. Whether you are returning after a break or considering a new approach, reconnecting with therapy can be empowering and supportive.

✓ What should I do if recent events or stressors affect my well-being?

Major changes such as health concerns, family transitions, or work pressures are normal parts of life. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate these shifts. Sharing your experiences with your clinical team can help update your care plan to fit your current needs.

✓ Could integrated care help me feel better supported?

If you are juggling multiple concerns or need help connecting physical and mental health, integrated care offers an accessible approach to linking to both behavioral health and primary care services, all at the same organization. Your care team will work with you to ensure your needs are met in a way that feels right for you.

✓ Is there a right or wrong answer to these check-ins?

No. The purpose of these questions is to honor your experiences and support your progress. Your care team is here to celebrate your efforts and walk alongside you every step of the way.

Have a question or ready to start a conversation about your care? Reach out to your team. Your voice and your journey are at the center of everything we do.

Scheduling a quick review with your care team can prevent setbacks and strengthen your recovery foundation for the year ahead.

When You Need Support, We’re Here

Even with a strong plan, life can feel overwhelming at times. If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is always available:

• The Harris Center 24/7 Crisis Line: 713-970-7000
• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988

You are not alone with mental health challenges, and you can reach out for help anytime.

Moving Forward with Confidence

For most adults with moderate to severe depression, a combination of medication and psychotherapy is the most effective approach, with treatment tailored to individual needs and preferences. Regular follow-up and care coordination are essential for optimizing outcomes.

As you set your goals for 2026, make one commitment to yourself: put your mental health first. A conversation with your care team today could be the step that changes the rest of your year.

Learn more about our Behavioral Health Outpatient Services by calling 713.970.7000.

References

1. Cuijpers P, Noma H, Karyotaki E, et al. A Network Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Psychotherapies, Pharmacotherapies and Their Combination in the Treatment of Adult Depression. World Psychiatry. 2020;19(1):92-107. doi:10.1002/wps.20701.
2. Simon GE, Moise N, Mohr DC. Management of Depression in Adults: A Review. JAMA. 2024;332(2):141-152. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.5756.
3. Henssler J, Alexander D, Schwarzer G, Bschor T, Baethge C. Combining Antidepressants vs Antidepressant Monotherapy for Treatment of Patients With Acute Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry. 2022;79(4):300-312. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.4313.
4. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Clinical Update: Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Care in Community Systems of Care. 2023;62(4):367-384. doi:10.1016/j.jaac.2022.06.001.