Depression

... What is it ?

Depression can feel like an overwhelming and isolating
experience. It's important to remember that you're not alone and there are many people who share similar struggles. By understanding depression and reaching out for support, you can often take control of your mental health and forge a path towards well-being.

Depression is sometimes described as a mood disorder. In clinical
terms, the word depression, or major depression, differs from every day 'feeling down' in life in three main ways;

1) The intensity of the feeling

2) The continuous feeling after a two week period

3) The hindering of someone’s daily functioning

Often people experience depression in different ways. For some, it gets in the way of their daily work routine causing them to be less productive and for other's, it can have an impact on relationships and result in chronic health conditions.

If you or someone you know struggles with depression or anxiety, don't hesitate to ask for support. Seeking professional help can make all the difference in your journey towards mental wellness. Take the first step and schedule an appointment with a mental health professional today – it's time to prioritize your well-being and regain control over your life. Remember, help is just a call or email away.

Depressed Symptoms

Major depression can cause a number of symptoms, affecting a person’s mood or physical body. Symptoms are sometimes on-going and can come and go; the symptoms of depression are often experienced very differently among men and women:

Symptoms experienced by men may relate to their:

Mood, i.e. feeling angry, aggressive, irritable, anxious and restless

Emotional well-being, i.e. feeling sad, hopeless or emptiness

engaging in high-risk activities

Behaviour, i.e. loss of interest and pleasure in favourite activities, lethargic, suicidal thoughts, excessive drinking, drugs usage

Sexual interest, i.e. lack of sexual desire or performance

Cognitive abilities i.e. not able to concentrate so well, inability to complete tasks, delayed responses during conversations

Sleep patterns, i.e. restless sleep, excessive sleep, insomnia

Physical well-being, i.e. fatigue, pains, headaches, digestive problems.

Symptoms experienced by women may relate to their:

Mood, i.e. feeling irritability

Emotional well-being, - feeling sad, anxious, hopeless or emptiness

Behaviour, - loss of interest in activities, not wanting to socialise, suicidal thoughts

Cognitive abilities, i.e. slower in their thinking and talking

Sleep patterns, i.e. broken sleep, oversleeping

Physical well-being, i.e. lower energy levels, fatigue, changes in their appetite, weight changes, aches, pains, headaches, increased cramps.

Common causes of depression:

Family history. There is a higher risk of developing depression if there is a history of depression in the family

Early childhood trauma. Traumatic events can cause a person’s body to fear any stressful situations

Medical conditions. particular conditions may put you at higher risk, such as chronic illness, insomnia, chronic pain, or attention deficit

Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Drug use. A history of drug or alcohol misuse can affect your risk of depression.

Other causes:

Low self-esteem or being self-critical

Personal history of mental illness

Particular medications

Life events, such as loss of a loved one, economic problems, or a divorce.

Source: Valencia Higuera and Kimberly Holland — Updated on February 11, 2020,

Healthline.www.healthline.com/health/depression[Accessed 18/09/20]

Client Bookings

Book a Consultation

Take the time to have a free 15 minute phone consultation with an experienced therapist, it will give you a better understanding of yourself and the concerns that may have left you feeling anxious or unable to cope.