What is depression?​

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Depression tends to be a word used in everyday language to describe a number 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 one returns to enjoying life.

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From a clinical perspective, depression is a much more serious mental health issue. 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 living activities. There may also be a significant personality change. 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 offer counselling and psychotherapy services to people who struggle with depression. I can show you practical step-by-step strategies that you can use to successfully beat depression and return to coping confidently 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 make a full recovery. Understanding the cause of your depression and engaging in active strategies can help you to alleviate your symptoms and prevent them from recurring in the future. Therapy can help you understand 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,

  • ageing,

  • 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. Despite many people experiencing the medication as helpful, some people do not respond to antidepressant medication. 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 which recognises that the way we feel, behave and respond to situations is based on the way we think. CBT involves working with a professional therapist to identify how your negative thoughts can cause you to become depressed. 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 discovered, challenged and replaced by more helpful and balanced thoughts.

 

Problem-solving therapy:

Assists people to gain mastery over day-to-day difficulties, stresses and problems which otherwise might seem overwhelming.

 

Relaxation:

Some relaxation techniques are known to help the body and nervous system settle and readjust to a calm state. Anything that helps you unwind and feel good may be helpful, such as deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, meditation, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation or taking a long soak in a hot bubble and/or scented bath.

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Lifestyle changes:

The following healthy lifestyle changes can help people manage their depression symptoms:

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

• The broadening and deepening of social networks.

• Good sleep hygiene.

• Regular exercise.

• Eating healthy food.

• Avoid using 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.