Living with Depression
Living with depression is difficult for anyone who suffers from it, as well as their family and friends. It can be hard to know if you have depression and what to do about it.
What is depression?
Depression is a common mental disorder which can affect anyone of any age. It is a debilitating illness which is characterised by a depressed mood and a lack of interest in life.
Depression is different from being sad or feeling down. We can all feel unhappy from time to time, but someone suffering with depression will experience intensely negative emotions of anxiety, hopelessness and helplessness, which remain with them for some time.
Symptoms of depression
Signs of depression vary from person to person, but they can include:
- A low mood
- A lack of interest in things that once brought enjoyment
- Poor concentration
- Irritability
- Guilty feelings
- Low self-worth
- Disturbed sleep
- A lack of appetite or overeating
- Low energy levels
- Crying
- Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
- Suicidal thoughts
Half of those who suffer depression will only experience it once. But for the other half it will occur again. It can take six months to over a year to recover from a bout of depression.
When to seek counselling for depression
If you have been feeling depressed or experiencing some of the above symptoms for more than two weeks, it is important to seek help so you don’t need to cope alone during this difficult time.
Seek the advice of your GP or consider counselling/psychotherapy to help you cope with these feelings and work toward recovery.
Need help dealing with depression?
At the FORD Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre, our professionally trained counsellors are here to support you through this difficult time. In a safe and confidential manner, they can help you develop coping strategies for depression to get you through the most difficult days.
