Depression Counselling

Are you looking for Depression Counselling in Leigh On Sea?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterised by a persistent, low mood and a feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities; even those you used to take pleasure in. It affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble motivating yourself to do usual day-to-day activities and sometimes you may even feel as though life isn’t worth living.

There are varying degrees of depression:

Mild depression is a pervasive feeling of sadness, low self-esteem and a lack of motivation. This can be successfully managed with lifestyle changes, such as exercise and psychotherapy.

Moderate depression, more severe than mild depression, involves more intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness and worthlessness. This can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and, in some cases, medication.

Severe depression can feel overwhelming. A person is likely to experience intense feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness and despair. However, it can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes, counselling and medication.

There may be many complex factors which underlie depression and these can vary from person to person. The most common causes of depression I have seen in my practice are:

Life events: Traumatic events such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, job loss, bullying or financial struggles can manifest as depression.

Chronic illness or injury: Chronic medical conditions and physical limitations can negatively affect a person’s quality of life and in some cases, lead to depression.

Substance misuse: Substance misuse, including drugs and alcohol, can not only cause chemical imbalances in the brain, but also financial strain, job loss and relationship breakdowns, all of which can lead to depression.

Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, due to puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid imbalances may, for some, cause depression.

Social isolation: Lack of social support and feelings of loneliness (particularly the type some experienced during the lockdowns associated with the Covid 19 pandemic) can contribute to depression. We mustn’t underestimate the impact this shared trauma had on our mental health. Some people are now suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) from the experience.

Genetics: Although not always the case, a family history of depression may increase a person’s risk of developing the condition.

It’s important to note that depression is a complex mental health condition and it is not always clear what causes it. It is essential to talk to a mental health professional such as myself, who can help identify the individual causes of depression and develop a personalised treatment plan.

If you are ready to take the brave step of seeking help, there are a few things you can try Counselling / psychotherapy. Talking with a mental health professional, such as myself, means we can work together to identify and work through the underlying causes of depression. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is an effective form of therapy focusing on how our thoughts affect the way we feel and subsequently the way we behave. A qualified therapist offering depression counselling in Leigh On Sea can help to identify and change negative thought patterns that can contribute to the condition.

Other actions you can take to alleviate symptoms of depression include activities such as exercise. Regular physical activity releases endorphins and this can help lift your mood and improve overall mental (and physical) health. Light therapy is a type of therapy particularly useful for SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). It involves exposure to bright light, which can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and improve mood. Dietary improvements. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Complementary therapies such as yoga, acupuncture and massage, can help to reduce stress and improve mood. Your GP may decide that medication such as antidepressants may be suitable. This medication can help reduce symptoms of depression.

There are numerous benefits to seeking support for depression such as improved mental health. Seeking support will improve your mental health and overall wellbeing. Mental health professionals can provide treatment options to manage or alleviate symptoms of depression. Personal growth and self-awareness. Seeking support will help you explore your emotions and gain insight into the underlying issues contributing to the depression, which can lead to personal growth and self-awareness. Increased coping skills. Effective coping skills will help you manage symptoms of depression and feel more in control. Therapy can help you develop these skills, such as mindfulness, self-care, or cognitive-behavioural techniques. Better relationships. Depression can cause strain in relationships. Seeking support can help improve communication, strengthen relationships and increase positive connections with others .Improved overall function. Depression can interfere with your ability to function at your full potential either at work, school, or in your personal life. Seeking support can help you regain your functionality and encourage you to pursue your goals .Reduced suicide risk. It is an uncomfortable, but unavoidable fact that untreated depression can lead to high-risk behaviours, including suicide. Seeking professional support for depression will promote safety and reduce suicide risk.

Overall, seeking support for depression will lead to an increased self-awareness, leading to better mental and emotional health, personal growth, resilience and improved relationships.