Counseling for Depression
Sadness… Feeling blue…Down in the dumps…
We all feel sad, lonely, and hopeless from time to time, but depression is different. Depression is disabling. Depression impacts your daily functioning and may impede your ability to work or damage your relationships.
It can feel like you do not have control of your emotions anymore; things you once loved no longer seem to matter.
Depression doesn’t discriminate!
People of all ages, cultures, genders, and races can be impacted.
According to the National Institute for Mental Health, 6.7% of all U.S. adults have had at least one major depressive episode and 12.8% of U.S. adolescents aged 12 to 17 have had at least one major depressive episode*.
For some, depression may only occur for a single period. For others, depression may be chronic. Whether it be one period of time or many, the earlier treatment is sought, the better the outcomes will be. You do not need to suffer alone.
Common symptoms of depression may mean feeling sad more days than not or losing interest in activities that you used to enjoy. You may find it difficult to concentrate or sleep. Emotions can range from excessive guilt to being lethargic with no energy – being almost numb.
The feelings of worthlessness that sometimes accompany depression can cause excessive weight loss or gain; these feelings can even lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
“But I’m not depressed; I don’t feel like so-and-so who is.”
Depression may be experienced differently from one person to another. Some people experience chronic, long-term depression that can last for years. Other people alternate between periods of depression and extreme elation or manic moods.
Maybe you notice that you experience depression symptoms only during certain times of the year. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) most commonly begins in fall or winter. On rare occasions, people suffer during the spring or summer.
You are not alone! Although depression may feel unmanageable at times, it is treatable.
Reference: *National Institute for Mental Health (n.d.). Major Depression.
We can help!
We partner with you to better understand how depression is impacting you so that we can create clear, manageable goals to promote healing and growth. It is important to not only understand your difficulties, but the strengths you possess to overcome depression.
In a safe, non-judgmental environment, we will work to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be contributing to your depression. Often, we may uncover themes that have evolved over time and are not serving your well-being.
We believe in the intrinsic healing power within everyone. Let us join you in uncovering your strength to overcome depression. It is time to defeat your sadness, reconnect with your family and friends, and lead the life you always envisioned.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.