Depression

Depression affects 15 million American adults each year. There are different types of depression all of which have particular symptoms, durations and treatments. Psychotherapy can help you determine if you are struggling with depression that is situational or something more persistent. Psychotherapy can give you support, clarity and awareness and empower you to treat your depression and enjoy life again.  

Symptoms of Depression

• Anxiety, apathy, general discontent, guilt, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, mood swings, sadness, irritability  

• Thoughts of suicide or self harm

• Sleep disturbance, restless sleep, insomnia, excessive sleepiness

• Agitation, social isolation, excessive crying

• Loss of appetite, excessive hunger, weight gain or weight loss

• Repetitive thinking, negative self talk, troubled relationships

Causes of Depression

There are many factors associated with depression. These factors are genetic, biological, social, situational and psychological. Three important neurotransmitters are norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. If these neurotransmitters are out of balance it can can cause depression. These chemical imbalances can be passed on genetically, and can make us vulnerable to depression. People who lack close, supportive relationships or who feel isolated are also prone to depression. Depression can be related to the loss of a loved one, painful breakup or other triggering event. Depression is also linked to trauma, dysfunctional parenting and codependence. 

Treatment for Depression

Psychotherapy is used to treat depression. For some people, a combination of talk therapy and medication is most effective. I am happy to refer you to a good psychiatrist who can give you a thorough assessment and prescribe medication if necessary.

I treat depression with talk therapy that aims to increase your awareness and decrease your sense of aloneness. Together we examine your symptoms and how they are impacting you emotionally, physically and mentally. Together we inquire into how you were impacted by early relationships and discuss ways to re-parent and care for yourself more effectively in the present. We also take a deep look at your relationship to your thoughts and seek to gain awareness of how your thought life is influencing your experience, this is called CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Recovery from depression is facilitated by increased self awareness, self responsibility and connection. Depression is treatable and with the right support can even be an opportunity for personal transformation.