One persons description of depression can be very different to another’s, someone might say “I’m depressed” when they mean “I’m fed up”, while another says “I’m depressed” and mean their world is so restricted they find it difficult to get out of bed in the mornings. Ups and downs of life are common and normal; and most people recover quite quickly, with true depression, the low mood and other symptoms are experienced every day for at least two weeks.
Symptoms of Depression:
Feeling empty most of the time
No longer enjoying things that used to give you pleasure
Finding it takes a lot of effort to move or feeling unusually restless
Experiencing very low on energy most days
Describing yourself as worthless and prone to self blame
Sleeping significantly more or less than usual
Gaining or decreasing weight or appetite
Struggling to concentrate, be decisive or think clearly
Having thoughts about dying or suicide
If some of the above is true and you’re finding it hard to live life effectively, you are possibly suffering from depression.
Some people with depression have a variety of other symptoms which may include: nervousness; irritability; phobias; aches and pains; difficulty maintaining healthy and happy relationships; feeling of numbness etc.
If you suspect you might be depressed, you probably are. Forget the ‘stiff upper-lip’ thing – it’s very overrated! It doesn’t make sense to suffer needlessly, everyone deserves to feel happy. Take steps today to get the fun back in your life.
What Causes Depression?
Loss is one cause, such as redundancy; unemployment; the death of a loved one; the end of a relationship; loss of self-belief etc.
Life events can also trigger depression, for example, prolonged stress; childbirth; a change of location; isolation; being close to someone with health problems (eg cancer, heart disease, arthritis etc);
Trauma is a significant cause of depression, such as surviving sexual, physical and/or psychological abuse; separation or divorce (own or parent’s); witnessing or experiencing shock inducing accidents and incidents etc.
Even achievement and success can lead to depression.
It’s normal to react to significant events with apprehension, sadness and low mood, when these feelings persist they can result in depression.
What Can I Do To Help Myself?
If you are having recurrent thoughts and making plans to die or commit suicide, you must insist on immediate, urgent treatment from your GP or local hospital.
If you recognise what’s causing your depression and deep inside you know what to do, do it (eg change your job; be assertive with people who are taking advantage of you; connect with friends again etc). Then do just one small thing that will begin to change your situation.
It sounds simple but are you eating a balanced diet, having enough rest and going out for walks or taking regular exercise? You’ll be surprised at what happens when you look after yourself.
If you are too low in energy to be proactive, ask an understanding friend or relative to take you to the GP or make enquiries about counselling on your behalf.
Seeking Professional Help
Don’t allow your lethargy or need for secrecy stop you from seeking treatment for depression. You deserve to be happier and to free to do the things you need or long to do. As soon as you feel ready to be free of your depression contact me, Dawn Haworth, on 07818 840 841 or email dawn@lifedesignsandmore.co.uk.
What Sort of Issues have People Brought To Therapy?
Grief
Life changing illness or injury
Loss of motivation
Low mood
Moving home
Pre and postnatal depression
Pressure from work
Redundancy
Sadness
Separation & divorce
Social withdrawal
Suicidal thoughts