Depression

Behavior changes that are out of the norm…

Depression is one of the most common health issues faced in the United States – but it is one of the most treatable!

Jessie* lost all motivation and energy to do anything. She was always feeling lost, stuck, and hopeless.

She was noticing changes in her sleep, appetite, and weight.

Family and friends were concerned because they thought Jessie was changing. Jessie began isolating themself from others.

Jessie’s performance at work was not going so well either. She had a hard time concentrating and couldn’t stay present and focused.

You might struggle with depression like Jessie – and I am here to help.

*Name changed to protect client confidentiality.

Do I need therapy for depression?

Many people miss the most common red flags of major depression, such as:

Physical – Aches and pain, loss of energy, sleep changes, weight changes

Emotional – Sadness or feeling down, irritability, loss of joy or pleasure, feeling worthless

Cognitive – Difficulty concentrating, thoughts of suicide*, fixation on upsetting thoughts, hopelessness

Social – Withdrawal from others, aggression, and conflict with others, loneliness and disconnection, loss of empathy

* Severe depression can lead to thoughts of suicide and self-harm. If you or a loved one are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek professional help immediately by calling 911 and contact me as soon as possible to get treatment.

Depression has many causes.

Life events, such as losing a loved one, being fired from your job, work conflict, moving to a new city, having a severe medical issue or injury, relationship problems, and more, can cause depression.

Additionally, depression can creep up slowly over time because of inadequate self-care, use of drugs or alcohol to cope with stress, or disconnection and loneliness.

Sometimes, we can become depressed when we cannot do the things we love – old hobbies and previous passions fall by the wayside, leaving us only with life’s stressors and worries.

Symptoms of depression create a nasty downward spiral.

Depression feeds its symptoms, leading to a worsening of severity when left unaddressed.

As people feel less motivated and have less pleasure in life, they might also become less hopeful and less socially connected. They may lose connection with others and isolate and begin to believe that no one cares about them.

Sometimes, depressive symptoms can keep people from doing even the most necessary tasks, such as cleaning, bathing, and preparing healthy meals.

Over time, these issues can severely impair one’s ability to function, relate with others, and have wellness.

Psychotherapy can help with depression.

How will psychotherapy help with depression?

Therapy for depression helps people escape the downward spiral. Therapists provide encouragement and support to get your body reengaged and active, boost feelings of self-worth and meaning, and help you reconnect and integrate socially.

As you engage in therapy for depression, you can learn to…

…escape the downward spiral and discover effective ways of coping.

You will become curious and self-reflective – and think and react differently to major life stressors.

A feeling of hopefulness and motivation for the future will return.

You will develop feelings of control and self-worth and be vulnerable and authentic in relationships.

Therapy for depression with me

No matter how down, how lost, and how hopeless you might feel, know that I am here for you.

Each session is entirely confidential and specifically designed to help you meet your goals.

During the first meeting, I will ask you questions about your story to get a sense of what might contribute to your depressive downward spiral.

This first session also provides a chance for us to get to know each other and allows me an opportunity to answer questions you might have before moving on to therapy.

I provide helpful insights and initial recommendations as we put together an effective strategy for enhancing your well-being.

We will meet regularly for individual therapy, which is where the real action happens.

Seeking support for depression makes a difference.

Regardless of the cause, I believe that with the proper support and dedication, anyone can recover from depression.

You deserve to be happy, healthy, full of purpose and meaning. And I believe that, together, we can get you there.

If you are ready and interested in signing up for your first session, contact me today to learn more about how therapy can help with depression.