Depression Counselling
Overcome depression at Breakaway South West Counselling
Have you been feeling low, sad or tearful?
Unable to enjoy the things you used to love?
Are you struggling to sleep?
You just want to be happy
Sometimes it’s apparent why we’re feeling sad or low. You might have lost your job, be going through a divorce or have family problems, or it could be the result of physical illness. However, it can often seem like there’s no obvious reason for the way we feel. There will usually be more than one reason why you suffer from depression but – whatever the cause – you have every right to seek the simple and much-deserved feeling of happiness.
Have you found yourself…
- Struggling at work
- Avoiding contact with friends and family
- Turning down social invites
- Neglecting hobbies you used to enjoy
- Having difficulties in your family life
What is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling fed up or unhappy occasionally. While most people go through periods of feeling blue, depression is characterised by persistent sadness lasting for weeks or months.
Depression can be mild, moderate or severe:
Mild – has some impact on your daily life
Moderate – has a significant impact on your daily life
Severe – makes it almost impossible to get through daily life
If you find yourself thinking about self-harm or suicide, unable to enjoy life, avoiding contact with others or struggling at work, it’s time to seek help.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Depression affects everyone differently, but signs and symptoms might include:
- Low mood, sadness or tearfulness
- Feelings of guilt
- Feeling irritable and intolerant of others
- Lack of motivation and energy
- Difficulty making decisions
- Inability to enjoy life or feeling emotionally ‘numb’
- Feeling anxious or worried
- Suicidal ideation or thoughts of self-harm
- Disturbed sleep
- Slower movement and speech
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Gastrointestinal (GI) problems
- Changes in your menstrual cycle
What is Grief?
Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish between grief and depression because they share many of the same signs and symptoms.
Grief is a natural response to loss with feelings of sadness that come and go, whereas depression is an illness. If you aren’t able to grieve or express your feelings properly after loss, this can contribute to depression.
Signs and Symptoms of Grief:
- Feeling shocked and numb
- Anger
- Guilt
- Fear
- Sadness
- Loneliness
- Tearfulness
- Fear
- Relief
Can Counselling Help Depression?
Even when it’s at its most severe, depression is a treatable condition. Counselling is a common and effective treatment for depression and is often used in combination with medication.
I’m Here For You
Due to the nature of depression, seeking help can often be difficult and frightening. I’m here to remind you that you’re worthy of support and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
My goal as your therapist will be to help you understand what is happening and discuss your feelings.
I provide a safe and supportive space away from family and friends in which you can talk freely and be heard.
I can help you to identify what you need so that you can move forward with your life.
Will you take that first step to overcoming your depression with me?
To arrange a 100% professional and confidential depression counselling appointment, get in touch with me today.