William Macaulay

Depression Counsellor & Psychotherapist

Perth, Western Australia

Phone 0401 316 977

for enquiries or appointments

Depression Counselling Perth

What is Depression?

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.

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.

Do You Want to Overcome Depression?

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 north and 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.

How Can Counselling Help?

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.

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:

Stressful life events such as the loss of a job, long-term unemployment, poor physical health, loneliness, family problems, the death of a loved one, or the end of a close relationship.
Adverse childhood experiences, such as trauma and abuse, or a lack of preparation for adult life.
Negative or distorted thinking patterns
Genetic factors
Brain activity and hormone factors

Typical Signs & Symptoms of Depression

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

Overcoming Depression

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):

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 thought and behaviour patterns that are causing 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:

Learning relaxation skills can help your body and nervous system to settle and readjust to a calm state. Simple daily relaxation tools may be helpful, such as deep breathing, meditation, mindfulness exercises and non-strenuous exercises like yoga.

Support

Suffering from depression doesn’t have to be forever. You are not broken, you’re just stuck. The good news is that with the right treatment and support, most people with depression make a full recovery. If you’re tired of living with depression and are ready to get treatment, I can help. Why wait any longer? Contact me today.

William Macaulay Counselling

E williammacaulay@iinet.net.au

T 0401 316 977

South of the River Location

17 Willcock Street

Ardross

WA 6153

North of the River Location

42b Salvado Road

Wembley

WA 6014

Contact Form

Home Page