Although the word depression has come to describe experiences of feeling sad, blue, down, upset or disappointed, these feelings are generally recognised as being a part of everyday life, and are often brief and have a slight impact on normal functioning. By contrast, many people suffer what is called “clinical” depression, and this is an intense and long lasting state that has a detrimental impact on one’s day to day functioning. Sometimes there may be a significant event or events that have contributed to someone having depression and sometimes these intense feelings may seem to appear without an apparent cause.
Psychological treatments, anti-depressant treatment and or a combination of the two, are the recommended options for treating depression. Your GP or psychologist can advise you about the form of treatment that will be best for you. A psychologist uses psychological therapy to assist someone who is experiencing depression. This involves talking with the client to understand some of the contributing factors to the depression, teaching strategies to alter thinking patterns and behaviours that contribute to depression, and working towards restoring a sense of happiness and meaning in life.
For more information about counselling and help for depression please contact us.