Depression

Depression: Why does it happen?  

Depression can onset at any time, but symptoms may be more likely to appear when facing significant life transitions or changes.

Examples:

• Going though a divorce
• Death of a loved one
• Relocation
• Traumas
• Times of high stress
• Seasonally (typically in the darker, colder, winter months)

Those with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and chronic pain disorders may also be prone to developing depression.

Depression: How does it show up in your life?

Depression can be feeling sad, or down but it is often much more complex, and affects people in a variety of ways. Other signs and symptoms of depression include: 

Physical symptoms:  

• Sleep disturbances (e.g. insomnia or hypersomnia, difficulty sleeping at appropriate times) 
• Unexplained pain (e.g. headaches or back pain with no other known cause) 
• Low energy/Fatigue  

Cognitive symptoms:  

• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions (brain fog or “cloudiness”)  
• Memory problems (difficulty with recall, forgetfulness or confusion) 
• Changes in motivation (e.g. difficulty fulfilling obligations and daily tasks, including self-care and hygiene maintenance)  

Behavioral indicators:  

• Angry outbursts 
• Irritability (e.g. lashing out at loved ones, having an unusually “short fuse”) 
• Thoughts of self-injury 
• Withdrawal from usual hobbies, activities, or social events of interest 

Mood symptoms: 

• Persistent feelings of emptiness, guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness 

How can Therapy Help?

Therapy can have an enduring, protective effect, making you more resilient to depression in the future. Our depression counselors can help you re-engage with your joy, through individually tailored care plans made to help you achieve your goals and improve symptoms.

How depression counselling can help you:

• Challenge negative beliefs about yourself, increasing self-esteem 

• Explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgmental space 

• Learn how to foster positive communication and emotional expression, improving social and family relationships 

• Better understand your struggles and the power you have to overcome them 

• Initiate joy and find purpose in your daily life