Depression
If you're struggling with depression, you're not alone. Depression is a common mental health condition that affects people of all ages. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that more than 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder that can have a significant impact on a person's daily life. It is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities, as well as physical symptoms such as changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels.
If left untreated, depression can lead to other problems, such as addictions and relationship difficulties.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression
Some common symptoms of depression include:
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Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness
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Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were previously enjoyed
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Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
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Decreased energy levels and fatigue
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Difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions
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Restlessness or slowed movement
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Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
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Thoughts of death or suicide
It's important to note that not everyone who experiences depression will have all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe.
If you are experiencing several of these symptoms and they are interfering with your daily life, it is important to seek help.
How I Can Help YOU
Psychodynamic Counselling can assist with depression in a variety of ways. Here are a few examples of how I can help:
Identify negative thought patterns and behaviors: I can work with you to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to your depression. By becoming more aware of these patterns, you can start to make positive changes and improve your mood.
Develop coping strategies: I can help you develop coping strategies to manage your depression and improve your overall quality of life. These strategies may include techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and problem-solving skills.
Explore the underlying causes of your depression: I can work with you to explore the underlying causes of your depression. This may involve discussing past experiences or relationships that may be contributing factors. By understanding the root causes of your depression, you can start to develop a plan for managing your symptoms.
Improve communication skills: I can help you improve your communication skills, which can be particularly helpful if your depression is impacting on your relationships. By learning how to express your needs and feelings effectively, you can improve your relationships and reduce the negative impact of depression.
Let's Connect
Psychodynamic Counselling can be a valuable resource for managing your depression and improving your overall quality of life.
If you are interested in counselling with me, I encourage you to reach out and schedule a Free ‘Connection Chat’ to determine if I am the right therapist for you. I look forward to hearing from you!
5 Quick Tips on Coping With Depression
Tip 1: Build a Support Network
For some, this may mean forging stronger ties with friends or family. Knowing you can count on supportive loved ones to help can go a long way toward improving your depression.
For others, a depression support group can be key. It may involve a community group that meets in your area or you might find an online support group who meets your needs. Support groups offer fellowship and you get to hear first-hand accounts of how others with depression have learned to cope.
Tip 2: Improve Your Sleep Hygiene
Sleep and mood are intimately related. Most people who have experienced depression know that it is often accompanied by sleeping problems. Maintain a regular bedtime each night to reinforce circadian rhythms. Turn off electronics at least an hour before you go to bed. Use dim light to read a book or engage in another relaxing activity.
If you want more tips about sleep hygiene, check out my Instagram. I’ve made a reel that can help you improve your sleep hygiene.
Tip 3: Don't Drink Too Much Alcohol
For some people, alcohol can become a problem. You may drink more than usual as a way of coping with or hiding your emotions, or just to fill time. But alcohol won't help you solve your problems and could also make you feel more depressed.
It probably won't hurt to have a glass of wine or beer once in a while for social reasons (unless you have a health problem that prevents you from drinking). But if you turn to alcohol to get you through the day, or if it causes trouble in your relationships, at work, in your social life, or with how you think and feel, you have a more serious problem.
Alcohol is a depressant. That means any amount you drink can make you more likely to get the blues. Drinking a lot can harm your brain and lead to depression.
Tip 4: Create a Wellness Toolbox
A wellness toolbox is a set of tools that you can use to help soothe yourself when you are feeling down. Think of things you like to do when you're happy. Then, when you're feeling down, like cuddling your pet, listening to your favorite music, taking a warm bath, or reading a good book try one of those activities.
Create a list of the activities you might try when you're feeling low. Then, choose an activity to try when you're having a rough day.
Tip 5: Seek Help for Depression
If you're still feeling down or depressed after a couple of weeks, talk to a healthcare professional, such as your GP.
If you start to feel that your life isn't worth living or about harming yourself, get help straight away. These are signs that you need to talk to someone urgently. Various treatments are available for depression, including talking therapies, antidepressants, and self-help.
