Depression and Low Mood
Depression Counselling, Therapy and CBT in St Albans/Hertfordshire and Online
Depression affects approximately one out of every four individuals, leading to a sense of being trapped in a repetitive cycle of sorrow, despair, and powerlessness. During such periods, it is common to become more reclusive, decline social invitations, spend extended hours in bed, experience feelings of isolation, and question our self-worth and the possibility of finding happiness again. These reactions stem from a place of vulnerability. If you find yourself in this situation, persisting for multiple weeks, it may be crucial to seek professional counselling for depression. By working with a depression therapist who employs Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for sadness or other therapeutic approaches tailored for depression,
you have the opportunity to overcome the emotional
slump, break free from negative thought and behavioral
patterns, and rediscover the wonders of your everyday
life.
What is Depression?
Depression is a prevalent psychological challenge that impacts approximately one out of every five individuals. It is distinguished by a persistent state of melancholy and unhappiness. Additionally, individuals may encounter sensations of isolation, emotional detachment, irritability, and anger. Furthermore, depression can influence one's cognitive processes, leading to self-critical thoughts, diminished self-assurance, a sense of hopelessness, a tendency to anticipate the worst outcomes, difficulties with concentration, and impaired memory.
Certain individuals may encounter thoughts of self-harm or suicide as a result of their depression. Additionally, individuals with depression may also endure distressing physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, sluggishness, disrupted sleep patterns, and fluctuations in appetite. A decline in motivation to participate in activities is common, often leading to self-imposed isolation. While this isolation may temporarily alleviate the burden of engaging in energy-draining situations, it deprives individuals of opportunities to experience enjoyment, accomplishment, and interpersonal closeness, which can ultimately contribute to an uplifted mood. Consequently, this cycle can result in a less fulfilling life, further exacerbating feelings of sadness.
These experiences detailed above can vary in intensity and duration, with some individuals experiencing brief episodes while others encounter prolonged periods. Depression may manifest as a single occurrence or as recurring episodes, involving multiple depressive episodes over time. It is not uncommon for individuals who experience depression and low mood to also grapple with anxiety, as these two conditions often coexist. For instance, individuals with obsessive-compulsive tendencies or those struggling with an eating disorder may frequently experience profound low moods and develop depressive symptoms as a result. In psychotherapy and counselling for depression, addressing these concurrent issues can be integral to the therapeutic process.
Why do we Feel Depressed?
Throughout our lives, we inevitably encounter various challenges and setbacks that deviate from our intended path. These difficulties can range from significant events like loss, unemployment, financial struggles, relationship complexities, work-related stress, to even grappling with health issues. However, it's important to note that the causes of depression are not universal, as they differ from person to person. The development of depression may stem from a singular stressor or difficulty, or it could arise from a combination of multiple factors. Additionally, it is believed that adverse experiences during childhood can contribute to an individual's vulnerability to depression later in life. In therapy and counselling for depression, it is common to explore the underlying factors that led to its emergence in order to address and understand its roots.
Is Counselling for Depression Effective? How?
Indeed, extensive systematic reviews have generated substantial evidence supporting the effectiveness of psychological treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and counselling, in addressing depression. Psychotherapy and counselling, encompassing various therapeutic approaches, are the primary elective treatments for alleviating low mood, occasionally supplemented by medications. When engaging in therapy for depression, collaboration with your therapist is crucial to comprehend the unique contributing factors that have led to its development.
Moreover, during your therapy sessions targeting depression, your therapist can assist you in identifying and breaking free from the detrimental cycles you may currently be trapped in. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for depression, in particular, often involves working on altering negative thinking patterns and gradually increasing your engagement in activities. In addition to focusing on such therapeutic tools, or alternatively, it may be beneficial for you to utilise the therapeutic space for an in-depth exploration of the present and past challenges that are impacting your mood. This allows for a comprehensive examination of the factors that contribute to your current emotional state.
Benefits of Counselling for Depression?
Engaging with a trained therapist can often be more conducive to seeking support than confiding in a friend or family member. As your therapist, I will actively listen to your concerns and create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment for you to navigate and cope with your depression. Together, we will work towards discovering solutions to the challenges you face.
Receiving counselling for depression can offer numerous advantages, such as:
-
Facilitating a deeper comprehension of your depression, its origins, and the factors that sustain it. This insight empowers you to effectively manage and prevent future occurrences.
-
Equipping you with coping strategies to effectively combat depression.
-
Cultivating greater self-compassion, fostering a kinder and more understanding relationship with yourself.
-
Enhancing your overall quality of life.
-
Reducing the reliance on medication.
-
Improving mood, sleep patterns, energy levels, concentration, and motivation.
-
Making it easier to openly discuss your problems with others.
-
Alleviating stress and anxiety.
-
Providing a fresh and healthier perspective on challenging situations.
-
Enhancing interpersonal relationships, promoting healthier and more fulfilling connections.
If you would like therapy for depression and low mood in St Albans/Hertfordshire or Online, please email me at contact@hertstherapypractice.com or complete the webform below.
Helpful resources on depression and low mood:
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/depression/#.XfdDrGT7TIU
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/clinical-depression/
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/d/depression
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself/Depression
https://web.ntw.nhs.uk/selfhelp/leaflets/Depression%20and%20Low%20Mood%20A4%202016%20FINAL.pdf
Contact
St Albans Rooms
21 Victoria Street
St Albans
AL1 3JJ
07825910485