What is depression?​

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Depression tends to be a word used in everyday language to describe a range of feelings experienced by most people from time to time, including sadness, moodiness, disappointment, boredom, lethargy, and feeling down in the dumps. These feelings typically lessen or pass reasonably quickly, and individuals return to enjoying life.

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From a clinical perspective, depression is a much more serious mental health issue requiring professional attention. It is characterised by experiencing a prolonged and significantly lower mood that lasts for two weeks or longer. There is typically a loss of interest or pleasure in activities that are usually enjoyable, and there is a diminished ability to love, work, and perform daily activities. Additionally, there may be a significant personality change. It is important to note that one in seven Australians will experience depression in their lifetime.

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Do you want to overcome depression?​

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Depression is not something one can simply snap out of. If left untreated, it may severely impact your mental health, long-term happiness and daily functioning.  Depression is a treatable condition, so there's no reason why you should suffer in silence.

 

Conveniently located in Wembley (north of the river) and Como (south of the river), I specialise in providing compassionate counselling and psychotherapy services to individuals struggling with depression. ​I can provide you with practical, step-by-step strategies to help you successfully overcome depression and regain your confidence in coping with daily life.

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How can counselling help with depression?​

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When you are depressed, things can seem hopeless and out of your control, but with the right help, it is possible to recover fully. Understanding the cause of your depression and engaging in active strategies can help you alleviate your symptoms and prevent them from recurring in the future. Depression therapy can assist you in understanding what's keeping you stuck and provide steps you can take to regain happiness and control of your life.

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What are the causes of depression?

 

There is no single cause for depression. Most research suggests that depression may be triggered by any one or combination of the following:

• Negative or distorted thinking patterns.

• Current stress resulting from dealing with certain life events, including relational break-ups or divorce, unemployment, loneliness, family problems, childbirth (or pregnancy loss), money problems, death in the family, ongoing health problems, caring for sick family members, aging, and exposure to traumatic events such as surviving fires, floods, or other catastrophes.

• Past stressors, including childhood physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect by a caregiver, being bullied as a child, and receiving a lack of preparation for adult life.

• Genetic factors.

• Brain activity and hormone factors.

• Drug and alcohol misuse.

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Typical Signs & Symptoms of Depression

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Signs and symptoms of clinical depression vary for each individual, but may include:

• Persistent low mood and sadness

• Loss of interest or enjoyment

• Reduced self-esteem and self-confidence

• Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness

• Increased levels of frustration or anger

• Pessimistic views of the future

• Ideas or acts of self-harm and suicide

• Disturbed sleep

• Change in appetite

• Decreased libido

• Reduced energy levels

• Excessive fatigue

• Diminished activities

• Reduced concentration and attention

• Loss of motivation

• Social withdrawal and isolation

 

Depression Treatment Options

 

Medication:

Antidepressant medication is commonly used as a treatment option for reducing the symptoms of depression. While many people find the medication helpful, it may not work for everyone. Counselling and psychotherapy, on its own or in conjunction with medication, is known to be the most effective treatment for depression.

 

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for depression:

CBT is a structured psychological treatment that recognises the impact of our thoughts on our feelings, behaviours, and responses to situations. By working with a professional therapist, CBT helps identify negative thought patterns that contribute to depression. It aims to assist individuals in realising that they can influence their mood by identifying and changing their thoughts and beliefs. Unhelpful thoughts and beliefs are challenged and replaced with more helpful and balanced ones.

 

Problem-solving therapy:

This approach helps people gain control over day-to-day difficulties, stresses, and problems that may otherwise seem overwhelming.

 

Relaxation techniques:

Various relaxation techniques can help the body and nervous system settle into a calm state. Deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, meditation, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, or enjoying a long soak in a hot and scented bath are all beneficial methods to unwind and feel better.

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Lifestyle changes:

Making healthy lifestyle changes can also aid in managing depression symptoms. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Identifying and maintaining a strong sense of purpose in life.

• Expanding and deepening social networks.

• Practising good sleep hygiene.

• Regular exercise.

• Consuming a healthy diet.

• Avoiding the use of alcohol and other drugs.

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Featured Videos About Depression

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Click here to go to a selection of informative YouTube videos about depression. You may also find them helpful for family members and friends to gain a greater understanding of depression.

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Depression Help and Support in Perth

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When you are depressed, things can seem hopeless. However, with the right help, it is possible to turn it around. A depression counsellor can assist you in understanding the root causes of your depression and provide you with tools to alleviate depressive symptoms and prevent them from occurring in the future.  If you're tired of living with depression and are ready to get treatment, I can help. Why wait any longer? Contact me today.