Are you experiencing low mood or depression like symptoms and not sure where to start? Perhaps you are living with depression and seeking specialised face to face depression counselling in Newcastle? Whether you are at the start of your experience or familiar with all things depression, why not reach out for a confidential conversation today and talk through your support options.
What is depression?
The word depression is often used to describe times when people are feeling down or distressed, however depression is more than just feeling sad; it's a serious mental health condition.
Depression is a mood disorder that results in the persistence of sadness, low mood, and loss of interest, it is also called Major Depressive Disorder. It affects how you think, feel, behave and perceive the world. It isn't something you can 'snap out' of, however, talking therapy or medication or both can help.
Depression can impact changes to feelings/emotions such as feeling sad, numb, empty, irritable or like everything is too hard. Depression can cause changes to thinking and perception such as finding it hard to concentrate, rumination or having thoughts of self harm or suicide. Depression can cause physiological changes such as feeling fatigued and exhausted, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite or unexplained aches and pains. Depression can also cause behaviour changes such as withdrawing from family or friends, losing interest in activities that were previously enjoyed, not getting things done, or using more alcohol and drugs.
Different Types of Depression
There are different types of depression that have particular symptoms and may vary in terms of mild, moderate or severe.
Major Depression - also called Clinical Depression or Unipolar Depression
Melancholia
Psychotic Depression (can have hallucinations, delusions or paranoia features)
Antenatal or Postnatal Depression
Dysthymic Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Cyclothymic Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Why am I depressed?
There is no simple reason why depression happens, genetic make up can predispose you to depression, as can stressful life events, thinking styles and adverse life experiences.
Evidence -based psychological therapy for depression
Depression treatment is a collaborative approach between the mental health clinician and the client, taking in a complete history, assessment of symptoms, including what has helped or been tried in the past and client preferences.
The most effective psychological treatments for depression are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR.
Finding mental health support for depression
Your GP is a good place to start. Your GP can offer a full physical examination including a blood test to rule out other medical conditions that may explain your symptoms. Your GP may ask you to complete the K10 or DASS21 - short questionnaires to assess levels of distress, track symptoms and inform treatment planning. Your GP can help you decide on a treatment plan - medication, psychotherapy or both, and link you in with a mental health clinician who specialises in evidenced-based focussed psychological strategies.
Not sure where to start? Reach out to discuss face to face depression counselling in Newcastle.
If you are experiencing symptoms or looking for face to face depression counselling in Newcastle, NSW, reach out for a complimentary 15 minute clarity call today by contacting Kristen.
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