Understanding depression

With more and more people suffering from depression, it’s important to first understand key signs of depression to recognise whether you or a loved one may be suffering with it. 

Depression is a mental health disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. 

This can affect a sufferer’s thoughts, emotions and behaviour, which typically leads to a range of physical and psychological symptoms. 

If you’re struggling with depression, you may feel as if you are trapped in a dark cloud, unable to escape the overwhelming feelings of sadness and despair. Or, you may feel numb or like you lack the hope and optimism that you may have had previously. 

Whilst different for everyone, depression can affect your ability to 

concentrate, sleep, and eat properly. Everyday tasks may become overwhelming, and you may experience a loss of motivation or interest in activities that used to bring you joy.

Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It is estimated that around 1 in 6 people in the UK will experience depression at some point in their lives. So, if you feel that you may be suffering from depression, please be assured that you are not alone. 

Though the exact causes of depression are not fully understood, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Difficult life events such as loss, trauma or major changes can also trigger or contribute to the development of depression.

If you feel that you or someone you know may be suffering from depression, it’s important to explore different treatment types to get the help needed. 

Depression not only affects the individual suffering with it, but also has an impact on their relationships, work performance and overall quality of life. This, in turn, can lead to feelings of guilt, isolation and even physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach problems and tiredness. If left untreated, depression can worsen over time and may even lead to thoughts of self-harm. 

Does therapy actually work for depression?

Struggling with depression, and unsure about reaching out to a therapist? Therapy is a widely recognised and effective treatment option for those suffering with depression. 

Numerous studies have proved the positive impact of therapy in helping to alleviate individuals’ depression symptoms, and its ability to improve overall wellbeing. 

With the right therapy type, individuals with depression can explore and address the underlying causes of their situation, learn about healthy approaches to cope with their symptoms and develop a more positive outlook on life.

Treatment for depression 

I offer two different treatment types that can help treat individuals with depression. These are Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and individual, person-centred therapy.

EMDR is particularly beneficial for individuals whose depression is rooted in trauma. Traumatic experiences can have a profound impact on a person’s mental wellbeing, which can contribute to the development of depression. EMDR focuses on processing traumatic memories and the associated negative emotions, allowing individuals to heal from the distressing events that may be causing their depression. 

In my EMDR sessions, I work with patients to use bilateral stimulation such as eye movements, taps or the “butterfly hug” method, all of which can help to activate the brain’s natural healing processes. 

This therapy type enables my clients to reprocess traumatic memories and replace their negative beliefs with more positive and adaptive ones. Ultimately, EMDR aims to alleviate the symptoms of trauma-related depression by addressing its underlying causes.

My individual therapy sessions follow a person-centred approach that is both supportive and empathetic. In these sessions, I take on a non-directive role, allowing my clients to lead the sessions and explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves openly, without fear of criticism or rejection. 

I find that my person-centred approach helps my clients to feel safe, establishing a foundation for growth and healing. Through offering respect, empathy, and understanding, individual therapy helps my clients to gain insight into their depression and develop strategies to manage their symptoms effectively.

Depression in young adults

Are you a parent curious about depression in young adults? 

Many young adults experience feelings of loneliness, sadness and, sometimes hopelessness that, if occurring often, can be signs of depression. It’s important to know the signs of depression in young adults and offer the appropriate support and treatment. 

As with other age groups, therapy and counselling are effective ways to help young adults overcome depression and regain control of their lives. 

I work with young adults to help with various mental health issues including depression, anxiety, low mood and trauma. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to express their thoughts and emotions. 

Seeing a therapist about depression 

I prioritise creating a supportive, empathetic, respectful, challenging, and non-judgmental environment for my clients during therapy sessions. 

I understand that depression can be debilitating and deeply distressing, and I aim to provide a safe space where my clients can explore their emotions without fear or shame. 

By actively listening, I encourage my clients to openly express their thoughts and feelings. I challenge them to explore their beliefs and assumptions, helping them gain new perspectives on their experiences. 

Through this collaborative process, I aim to empower my clients to develop healthy approaches and make positive changes in their lives.

When working with new clients, I begin with an assessment session to create a plan of action for the treatment going forward, based on my clients’ goals, and any factors that could be contributing towards their current struggles. Then, in all sessions following this, we work together to target the client’s unique difficulties and situation. 

Are you ready to take the first step on your healing journey? Based near Warrington, Cheshire, I offer appointments both face-to-face and online via Zoom. 

Book your first session or get in touch with me today to find out more about how I can help you on your depression treatment journey.