Understanding depression

Our lives are enriched with emotions. We may receive good news where we experience joy, later in the day something may happen and we feel sad. Emotions are part of our everyday life.

In contrast depression includes not only a feeling of sadness but also mental, behavioral, physical and emotional symptoms. When these symptoms are severe, chronic or repeatedly occur, they may start impacting on our relationships or in the workplace, becoming quite debilitating.

What are some of the causes of depression?

loss/grief
a health issue
unresolved childhood experiences
workplace stress
relationship difficulties
family conflict
isolation and loneliness

Symptoms of Depression

self-criticism
hopelessness
concentration difficulties
withdrawing from others
loss of enjoyment in activities
loss of initiative, “can't get started”
headaches
changes in sleeping patterns
unexplained tiredness

weight changes
unexplainable aches/pains
changes in sex drive
feelings of sadness
irritability
anger
guilt
nervousness
eating more/less

If you find you are experiencing some of these symptoms rest assured, you are not alone and there is ‘light at the end of the tunnel'. Counselling will enable you to talk about what may be contributing to your depression and, together with your counsellor, explore strategies to resolve and/or cope with depression.