Adult depression is painful and can be caused by a wide range of issues including loss, grief, high stress, trauma, major life transitions, illness, and relationship problems. It can be a very isolating and hopeless experience as depression can make difficult it to feel joy, complete your day-to-day tasks, and socialize with your friends and family. You may also experience changes in eating, sleeping, and energy levels. Feelings of isolation, self-criticism, guilt, shame and worthlessness are often present and you may blame yourself for how you’re feeling. Know that many excellent treatment options exist and that you do not have to do this alone.
There is hope. Therapy can help you find pleasure, meaning, and purpose for your life.
In our work together, we will identify the self-limiting thoughts and behaviour patterns that are contributing to your depression symptoms, understand their origins, and build strategies to overcome them. You will learn a range of coping skills to help you better take care of yourself and empower you to better cope with your emotions. As you better understand your unmet needs, you will learn to meet your needs. You will begin to feel more engaged in your life, see your inner strength, and find increased life satisfaction.
I’m afraid of therapy and what might come out in our sessions.
Your depression symptoms are telling you that something is not quite balanced in your life. It is important for us to pay attention to our feelings and to their underlying messages. When you better understand your symptoms, you will better understand yourself, improve your coping skills, and become better equipped to handle life’s difficult situations. Know that depression treatment will progress at a pace that feels comfortable for you and that you will never be forced to speak about something you don’t feel comfortable speaking about.
I don’t want to go on medication.
Medication is often not needed for mild to moderate depression. In these cases, therapy combined with lifestyle changes can be very effective in alleviating symptoms. Ultimately it is your choice to pursue medication treatment. I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in talk therapy techniques that I use in my office. I do not prescribe medication. Should you require a medication consult, we will discuss it and you may be referred to a psychiatrist or physician for this purpose.
Therapy can take time and I’m concerned about cost.
Depression can negatively impact your relationships, make it hard to be productive at work, and lead to feelings of low self-worth. It may be helpful to view therapy for depression an investment in yourself now and for the future. A course of psychotherapy for depression with a registered clinical psychologist can help you face the barriers to sustained happiness. You will make room for healthier relationships, increase your productivity, and overall gain a more positive view of your life.
