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Depression
Understanding and Coping
Facing the challenges of depression? At Live Life Happy Therapy, I am committed to helping you rebuild the connections that once brought joy and warmth to your life. Everyone's journey with depression is unique, and understanding its roots is crucial. I will help guide you back to a balanced, fulfilling life using a blend of therapeutic techniques, including counselling, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and neuro-linguistic psychotherapy. No matter how bleak things may seem, I firmly believe there's always a spark of hope awaiting to light your path.
Journeying Through Depression: You're Not Alone
We all have our ups and downs, don't we? But sometimes, that lingering feeling of sadness or the sudden disinterest in things we once loved can hint at something deeper. This isn't just about a passing mood or a tough day—it's about depression, a challenge that many face silently, letting it cast shadows over their relationships, work, school, and social lives.
Understanding depression means realising it's more than just "feeling down". It's a lasting state that might arise from traumas, personal losses, or past mistreatments. And did you know? Women often find themselves more vulnerable to depression than men.
If we look at the bigger picture, a staggering 280 million people worldwide find themselves in the grasp of depression. Breaking it down, 3.8% of the global population, including 5% of adults—with a slightly higher percentage in women—are navigating these turbulent waters. Not to mention, our cherished elders, with 5.7% of those over 60, also facing this challenge.
Recognising a Depressive Episode:
When someone's in the midst of a depressive episode, they might feel an overwhelming sadness, irritability, or even emptiness for weeks on end. Beyond these feelings, they might:
- Struggle to focus
- Battle feelings of guilt or low self-worth
- Feel consumed by hopelessness
- Harbor thoughts of harm or suicide
- Find sleep elusive
- Experience changes in appetite or weight
- Constantly feel drained
Depending on the intensity and combination of these symptoms, one might label the episode as mild, moderate, or severe.
Different Types of Depression
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): Think of this as a low mood that just doesn’t lift for years.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Feeling down, particularly during certain seasons? This could be why.
- Antenatal Depression: For some, pregnancy brings not just joy, but also this shade of depression.
- Postnatal Depression (PND): After welcoming a baby, mothers, fathers, or partners might experience this.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Hormonal shifts can sometimes cause this type of depression.
How to Start Your Healing Journey
If depression feels like a heavy weight upon your shoulders, remember that small steps can pave the way towards brighter days. Sometimes, all you need is a compassionate ear or a bit of guidance to help light your path. Always remember: you're not alone in this and are deeply valued. There's a world of support out there waiting for you.
Starting Points for Self-Care Include (in no specific order):
- Explore hobbies that bring joy to your heart.
- Reconnect with friends and family; their presence can be a beacon of hope.
- Incorporate a bit of movement into your day, whether it's stretching or a brief walk.
- Establish consistent meal and sleep routines—they are foundational to your well-being.
- Reduce alcohol intake and avoid illicit substances.
- Open up about your feelings. Whether it's a trusted friend or a professional, someone is ready to listen.
When Things Seem Too Much…
Know that a network of support surrounds you. Reach out to a friend, family member, or professional to share what you're going through. If the shadows grow too dark, never hesitate to seek immediate assistance. Hope is ever-present, and brighter days await.