Depression
Living with Depression
Depression can have a profound impact on your life. It may feel like a constant companion or it may feel interment, with its visits never feeling like the right time but yet oh so familiar. Depression is more than just times of feeling down; it can be a consuming darkness, a trapped or lost feeling, not only a thief of joy but also taking away your ability to function the way you want to.
The insidious nature of depression can cause us despair, overwhelming sadness, no motivation or energy, hopelessness, and that feeling like you are going under and just can’t make it to the surface. You may be physically affected with pain, loss of or increased appetite, and difficulty with sleep- too much or too little. Many of these symptoms cause us to lash out at those around us or withdrawal from our friends or family.
Who Has Depression?
One in ten adults in America struggle with depression and about 20% of teens have experienced depression.
You are not alone in this. This condition knows no bounds, with people of every gender, race, and age affected. Maybe you are putting the mask on to hide what you are going through due to stigma or to protect yourself or those around you. Pushing through is difficult, fighting alone may never get easier. Some days it feels possible, other days you may feel so alone, overwhelmed, and hopeless.
Am I Depressed?
Depression may ebb and flow, out of the blue or when triggered. It may feel constant or it may feel like times of ups and downs, with those downs being more than just feeling blue. You may be questioning yourself and your symptoms if it is not constant. Your feelings of depression are valid and you deserve the help you need in those times.
Some common symptoms of depression include:
- Loss of interest in activities
- Feeling guilty, worthless, or hopeless
- Feeling others would be better off without you
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the time
- Low energy levels or fatigue
- Lack of sleep, insomnia, or too much sleep, oversleeping maybe without feeling rested
- Appetite changes, increased appetite with or without weight gain or decreased appetite
- Chronic pain, aches or pain that won’t go away
- Difficulty concentrating, loss of focus, difficulty making decisions
- Forgetfulness
- Thoughts of self-harm, death, or suicide
This list is not exhaustive or the only way depression manifests, nor is it necessary to have all of these symptoms. Speaking with a trained mental health counselor can help you understand yourself and your symptoms. Counseling can help you move toward the life you want by providing support, guidance, and the tools you need to combat your symptoms.
Treatment for Depression
Overcoming depression by asking for help is a first step on your path to the productive and fulfilling life you deserve. Therapy modalities like mindfulness based cognitive therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, parts work, and even EMDR can all be helpful treatments. These approaches should be tailored to you to meet your specific needs and help you in the way that works best for you. Therapy can give you insights into understanding your unique perspective and symptoms. Through this individualized lens, you can gain the tools that actually help YOU, not a one size fits all treatment!
There is help, you do not have to struggle alone. Qualified mental health counselors are there to support you, guide you, help you manage your symptoms, and reclaim your life. Counseling is an important step in dealing with your depression.
You do not have to be alone in this. A more fulfilled, healthier, and content life is possible. Depression does often feel like it has us on a yo-yo string with the ups and downs, counseling can be the support you need during those more difficult times and help you gain the awareness and tools you need to stay in the better times.
Please feel free to reach out today for a free consultation call.