Depression
What is Depression?
Everybody has a bad day or feels down from time to time. It is a normal response to a stressful situation such as an argument or getting fired from your job. Those types of feelings tend to be temporary. However, if those feelings recur or do not go away after a few weeks, and are interfering with your normal daily life, it might be a sign that you are suffering from depression.
Depression (Major Depressive Disorder and Persistent Depressive Disorder/Dysthymia) are mental health conditions that affect how you think, feel, and behave. About one in six people will experience depression at some point in their life*. While it is fairly common, it often goes undiagnosed due to its invisible nature which is not readily apparent to the people around you.
How I Can Help You:
Depression can be debilitating, but it is treatable. Let me help you address the cognitive distortions, disordered neurochemistry, and unresolved loss and pain that might be contributing to your low mood. I find that a combination of various therapeutic modalities can be very effective.
Some types of therapy I utilize when working with depression are:
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Psychodrama / Experiential work
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction
- Intuitive eating
- Additional types of therapeutic techniques unique to your situation
Common Signs and Symptoms:
You might have:
- Decreased energy or fatigue
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Trouble sleeping, waking up very early in the morning, or oversleeping
- Appetite and/or weight changes
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Aches, pains, headaches, cramps, digestive problems, or other physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment
*American Psychiatric Association https://psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression
You might feel:
- Sad, anxious, empty, or numb
- Hopeless, helpless, or pessimistic
- Irritable, frustrated, or restless
- Guilty or worthless
- Isolated and unable to relate to others
Also, medical conditions (e.g., thyroid problems, a brain tumor, or vitamin deficiency) can mimic symptoms of depression, making it important to rule out general medical causes.
