Understanding Depression
Depression is a common but serious mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. It can affect your mood, thoughts, and behaviour, ultimately impacting your ability to function in daily life. Depression is more than just feeling low; it can lead to significant emotional and physical challenges.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression can manifest in various ways, and symptoms may vary from person to person.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Lack of motivation
- Changes in appetite or weight (either loss or gain)
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Fatigue or decreased energy levels
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Some types of Depression
Major Depressive Disorder
Characterised by a persistent feeling of sadness or a lack of interest in activities for at least two weeks, significantly affecting daily functioning.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
A chronic form of depression that lasts for at least two years, marked by a low mood, but with fewer symptoms than major depression.
Bipolar Disorder
This condition involves episodes of depression paired with periods of mania or elevated mood.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
A type of depression that typically occurs during specific seasons, often the winter months when there is less natural sunlight.
How Therapy Can Help With Depression
Therapy can be a powerful tool for individuals dealing with depression. At London Bridge Therapy, we provide a supportive and compassionate environment for you to explore your feelings and experiences. Therapy can help in the following ways:
- Compassionate Support: Therapy offers a safe space where you can express your feelings, leading to emotional relief and validation.
- Identifying Triggers: Understanding the underlying causes and triggers of your depression can empower you to manage your symptoms more effectively.
- Building Coping Strategies: Therapy equips you with practical strategies to cope with depressive symptoms, such as mindfulness techniques, self-care practices, and stress management skills.
- Setting Goals: Through therapy, you can work towards improving your mood by setting realistic and achievable goals, promoting a sense of purpose and accomplishment in your daily life. This may include behaviour activation techniques to increase activity levels. It may also help you to realign with your values to promote a more fulfilled life with greater levels of joy.
Get support
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, please contact London Bridge Therapy today to begin your journey towards healing and rebuilding your sense of joy and fulfilment. Our team of leading therapists is available to support you through the challenges you are facing.
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Get in touch
Embark on the path to addressing concerns and finding the support you need. Reach out to us today to start your journey with London Bridge Therapy. Dr. Mahan-Taylor and our team are here to offer understanding and care, ensuring you feel supported throughout your therapeutic experience.
Your well-being is our priority at London Bridge Therapy.