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Therapy for Depression

Life is inevitably filled with ups and downs. For some, the downs can feel more overwhelming and harder to manage. We've all felt sadness or experienced low moods, but what happens when these emotions take hold and make it hard to find our way back?

 

When you're stuck in a rut, and your overall well-being is affected by persistent low moods, we're here to guide you through these challenging experiences.

What is Depression?

Depression is a prevalent mood disorder, characterized by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in things once enjoyable. Unlike temporary sadness, depression lingers and can feel overwhelming.

 

A key factor in understanding depression is the behavioral activation cycle. This cycle means that engaging in negative behaviors makes it easier to continue down a negative path, feeding negative emotions. On the other hand, positive behaviors lead to more positive feelings. In therapy, we'll help you break free from negative cycles and create a healthier, more positive reinforcement loop.

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Facts on Depression

  • Depression is one of the most common mood disorders, affecting an estimated 1 in 15 adults annually.

  • It often begins during the late teens or mid-20s.

  • Women are more likely to experience depression than men.

  • Depression tends to run in families.

Symptoms of Depression

The symptoms of depression vary, but they commonly include:

 

  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness

  • Pessimism and hopelessness

  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)

  • Irritability and restlessness

  • Loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities, including sex

  • Changes in appetite (overeating or loss of appetite)

  • Physical pain that won’t go away

  • Digestive issues that don’t resolve, even with treatment

  • Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or anxiety

  • Thoughts of suicide or attempts

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What Causes Depression?

There is no single cause of depression. It can be triggered by life experiences, genetics, personal history, or a combination of these factors. Some factors that increase the risk of depression include:

 

  • Low self-esteem or self-criticism

  • A personal or family history of mental illness

  • Stressful life events (such as loss, economic problems, or divorce)

  • Unhealthy coping mechanisms

 

It's important to note that depression can appear without any obvious reason. Many people don’t know when or why they first experience depression, making it harder to understand. Depression results from a complex interplay of genetics, environment, biochemistry, and personality.

Therapy Treatment for Depression

Despite the overwhelming feelings that depression can bring, treatment is often highly effective. Therapy is proven to reduce depressive symptoms, with many clients reporting significant improvement.

 

Our therapists use a range of approaches tailored to each individual's needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps identify and challenge negative thinking patterns, fostering more balanced perspectives. Emotion-focused therapy and narrative therapy help uncover underlying emotional causes and create new, empowering narratives. If trauma is a contributing factor, techniques like EMDR, and Trauma-focused CBT can be incorporated to address the deeper roots.

Types of Depression

Depression manifests in many forms. Some of the most common types include:

 

  • Persistent Depressive Disorder

  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

  • Postpartum Depression

  • Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

  • Situational Depression

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How Can We Help You with Depression?

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If you're experiencing ongoing low mood or depression, we can help. Together, we'll identify the factors influencing your depression and work on strategies to manage symptoms. We'll focus on healthy coping mechanisms and explore the root causes of your depression to help you gain a better understanding of yourself and your emotions.

 

Book a free consultation today and take the first step towards feeling better.

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