What is depression?

Many people experience feelings of depression, which they often describe as feeling sad, down, moody, dark, or low. Some people can experience these feelings intensely, and for long periods of time (e.g. weeks, months, or even years). It can be difficult to identify why, and in some cases it can seem that there is no apparent reason at all.

It is important to remember that depression is more than just a low mood, it is a serious condition that affects people’s physical and mental health, and it needs to be treated.

What are the signs and symptoms that you may be depressed?

If over the last couple of weeks or more, you've been feeling sad, down, low, dark, or moody most of the time, or you have lost interest or pleasure in usual activities, then you may be depressed.

Most people experience some of these feelings from time to time, and this does not necessarily mean that you are depressed. Equally, not everyone who is experiencing depression will report having all of these feelings.

Treatment for depression – what you can do about it.

Everyone is different, and any treatment approach needs to work with the individual’s needs in mind. There is no one way that people recover from depression, it is different for everyone.

However, there are a range of proven treatment options that can assist you. Typically these involve psychological counselling like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT); medical treatment (i.e. anti-depressants); and/or other holistic components (e.g. support from family and friends, having a healthy lifestyle, etc.)

See the beyondblue and black dog institute websites for a full discussion of this information.

What can you do next?

It is important that you find the right treatment and the right practitioner to meet your needs. At Tillver Counselling & Wellness we offer psychology and counselling services where our practitioners work in an inclusive manner and are judgement free. Drawing on a client centred approach, they will see you as an expert in your own life. Our practitioners are experienced in working with people experiencing depression.

If you’d like to talk to someone please review the details of our practitioners here and contact them directly, or send an email to our practice admin@tillvercounselling.com