Can Setting Goals Help Get You Through Depression?

Afeefa Rafath

Practicing Psychologist | EAP Counsellor | Content Writer

30 Sep 20244 min read

wooden pieces and paper brain - Can Setting Goals Help Get You Through Depression?

Goal setting is often touted as a powerful tool for managing depression, offering a sense of purpose and direction. However, the effectiveness of goal setting for mental health in alleviating depression can vary significantly based on individual circumstances.

While some find motivation and structure through setting goals to improve depression, others may struggle with feelings of failure or overwhelm. Understanding these nuances is crucial in exploring how setting goals boosts mood and influences mental health outcomes.

Understanding Goal Setting and Depression

Goal Setting: The process of defining and working towards a desired outcome.

Depression: Depression is a common mental health disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and a range of emotional and physical problems that can interfere with daily life.

Can Goal Setting Help Improve Depression?

Yes, goal setting can play a positive role in improving depression. It aids in recovery by offering a structured path forward and is a key component of therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), which enhance treatment outcomes.

Additionally, it fosters trust between individuals and their therapists while promoting self-awareness by helping identify triggers and patterns. Ultimately, goal setting empowers individuals, giving them a greater sense of control over their mental health.

Goal setting can improve depression by helping individuals focus on recovery, building trust with therapists, and enhancing therapy outcomes. It fosters self-awareness by identifying triggers and offers a sense of empowerment through structured progress.

Research Findings on How Goal Setting Helps Improve Depression

Research indicates that goal achievement can significantly help improve depression by providing a sense of purpose, boosting self-efficacy, and promoting positive action:

Increased motivation and engagement: Setting specific, achievable goals can motivate individuals with depression to take action and actively engage in their recovery process, leading to a sense of accomplishment when goals are met.

Improved self-esteem: Successfully achieving goals for mental wellness can significantly boost self-esteem and self-efficacy, which are often diminished in individuals experiencing depression.

Positive focus shift: A 2019 study stated the process of goal setting encourages a shift in focus from negative thoughts to more positive and future-oriented thinking, which can help alleviate depressive symptoms.

Structure and direction: Goal setting provides a structured framework for managing depression by outlining clear steps and actions towards improvement.

Therapeutic application: Many psychotherapies, including CBT, incorporate objective setting as a core component to help individuals identify and work towards meaningful goals.

What’s the Success Rate of Goal Setting in Improving Depression?

Research supports the effectiveness of goal setting in improving mental health, particularly for individuals with depression. A 2024 study showed that goal attainment increased from 42.6% at 12 weeks to 62.4% at 24 weeks. A 2018 study reported that 83% of goals were rated moderately or highly specific in a separate study. A 2019 study showed goal setting was also linked to higher therapy attendance, highlighting its therapeutic value.

Symptoms of Depression to check. This will help you understand when to seek help:

Emotional Symptoms

Persistent Sadness: A continuous feeling of sadness or emptiness.
⁠Irritability: Increased frustration or anger over minor issues.
Feelings of Hopelessness: A belief that things will never get better.
⁠Guilt or Worthlessness: Excessive feelings of guilt or a sense of being a failure.

Physical Symptoms

Changes in Appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating habits.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much.
Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
⁠Aches and Pains: Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues.

Cognitive Symptoms

⁠Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
Negative Thinking: A tendency to dwell on negative thoughts or events.

Behavioural Symptoms

⁠Withdrawal from Social Activities: Avoiding friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities.
⁠Decreased Performance: A decline in work or academic performance.

Engaging with healthcare providers and considering treatment programs offered by Mave Health can benefit those navigating these challenges.

Do Read More About Depression

Conclusion

Goal setting can be a valuable tool in managing depression, but its effectiveness depends on individual factors. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential for personalised guidance. Consider exploring the Mave Health Program for a tailored mental well-being plan. Take the next step - discuss goal setting with your doctor to find the best approach for you.

Citation

Baldwin, D. S., Adair, M., Micheelsen, A., Åstrøm, D. O., & Reines, E. H. (2024). Goal setting and goal attainment in patients with major depressive disorder: a narrative review on shared decision making in clinical practice. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 40(3), 483–491. doi:10.1080/03007995.2024.2313108
Cairns, A. J., Kavanagh, D. J., Dark, F., & McPhail, S. M. (2019). Goal setting improves retention in youth mental health: a cross-sectional analysis. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, 13(1), 31. doi:10.1186/s13034-019-0288-x
Jacob, J., Stankovic, M., Spuerck, I., & Shokraneh, F. (2022). Goal setting with young people for anxiety and depression: What works for whom in therapeutic relationships? A literature review and insight analysis. BMC Psychology, 10(1), 171. doi:10.1186/s40359-022-00879-5
Perseverance Toward Life Goals Can Fend Off Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorders. (N.d.). Retrieved 29 September 2024, from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2019/05/goals-perseverance
Rose, G., & Smith, L. (2018). Mental health recovery, goal setting and working alliance in an Australian community-managed organisation. Health Psychology Open, 5(1), 2055102918774674. doi:10.1177/2055102918774674
Weinberger, M. I., Mateo, C., & Sirey, J. A. (2009). Perceived barriers to mental health care and goal setting among depressed, community-dwelling older adults. Patient Preference and Adherence, 3, 145–149. doi:10.2147/ppa.s5722
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