Understanding Depression
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, weighed down by a sense of darkness or heaviness? Maybe you’re struggling to sit with feelings that are overwhelming you. Many individuals starting therapy for depression often find themselves feeling trapped, unable to move forward or regain the joy they once felt in activities they use to enjoy. Depression and grief can be experienced by anyone at any point in life, it’s universal and unique to each person. Depression and grief may look like:
Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loneliness
Low energy or motivation
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
Negative thoughts, self-talk and feelings of inadequacy
Physical discomfort or pain
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
The level of severity is different for everyone. It’s valid to want to address depression at any stage. And, as depression progresses, it can get in the way of your daily routines, impact self-care, work, school, and relationships. Whether depression looms large over your life or lingers in the background, seeking help to navigate this experience is both necessary and valid.
Moreover, depression and grief often stem from experiences of loss, which extend beyond the death of a loved one (including pets). Loss comes in many forms, including:
Loss of employment
Divorce or separation
Family estrangement
Loss of control over circumstances
Major life transitions
If you’re grappling with depression or grief resulting from loss, know that you’re not alone. Seeking support in managing these feelings is an important step toward healing and reclaiming a sense of balance in your life.
Therapy can help
I want to assure that while our society may not openly discuss it, what you’re going through is a common experience. Taking the step to start therapy is about granting yourself permission to seek the support you deserve. Even if you’re unsure about deserving care, I’m here to remind you that you do. Imagine the possibilities if you could:
Experience more joy and hopefulness
Feel more energized and motivated
Challenge unhelpful, negative beliefs
Prioritize self-care
Practice more self-compassionate
Therapy opens up the possibility to understanding your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, empowering you to better manage your depression or grief. Together, we’ll build a toolbox of practical tools you need to find your way through the darkness. Therapy may involve exploring past experiences, addressing relationship needs, and identifying current stressors contributing to or exacerbating your depression.
Developing realistic expectations and goals, along with building tolerance to life’s challenges, can help you in regaining a sense of control and satisfaction in your life. Therapy for depression and grief supports you in processing loss, accepting reality, and nurturing connections with others to adapt to your new reality.
If you’re ready to take the next step, click the button below to book an introductory call.