Depression is a weight that can often feel impossible to lift. It permeates every aspect of life, making each day a challenge. However, there is hope, and there is a way forward. I’m here to be your guide on this journey towards healing, offering a personalized approach to depression treatment that provides you with the tools and strategies to reclaim your life from the clutches of depression.
Common Symptoms
Feeling sad or empty
Mood changes are one of the most common symptoms of depression. A person who has depression may feel sad or low for extended periods.
01
Feeling hopeless or helpless
Depression can make people feel hopeless because there is no foreseeable end to how they are feeling.
02
Feeling worthless
Guilt is a normal reaction after a person says or does something that they regret, but people with depression may have ongoing feelings of guilt for no reason.
03
Feeling excessively guilty
Guilt is a normal reaction after a person says or does something that they regret, but people with depression may have ongoing feelings of guilt for no reason.
04
Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities
This includes activities that used to bring joy, such as hobbies or sports.
05
Sleep disturbances
This includes both insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep) and hypersomnia (sleeping too much).
06
Tiredness and lack of energy
Even small tasks can take extra effort.
07
Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
Changes in appetite or weight are common symptoms of depression.
08
Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
These are common symptoms of depression.
09
Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
People with depression may experience cognitive changes.
10
Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
Cognitive symptoms are common in depression.
11
Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
If a person has these feelings alongside suicidal thoughts, they should seek emergency help.
12
Unexplained physical problems
These include headaches, digestive disorders, and unexplained aches and pains.
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Effective therapeutic techniques
Effective therapeutic techniques
Effective therapeutic techniques
Effective therapeutic techniques
Effective therapeutic techniques
Effective therapeutic techniques
Therapeutic techniques are strategies used in therapy to help individuals improve their mental health. We may use multiple techniques or focus on one method depending on the client’s needs and goals
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand how their thoughts and feelings influence their behaviors. It’s often used to treat stress and anxiety.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
This is a type of therapy that combines cognitive therapy techniques with mindfulness strategies. It’s often used to help individuals manage stress and prevent the recurrence of depressive episodes.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
This is a program that uses mindfulness meditation to help individuals manage stress, pain, and illness.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
This therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social functioning to help reduce anxiety.
Psychodynamic Therapy
This therapy focuses on understanding and changing complex, deep-seated patterns of behavior. It may be used for individuals with certain types of anxiety disorders.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
This approach helps individuals accept their thoughts and feelings rather than trying to change or avoid them. It also encourages commitment to actions that improve and enrich their lives.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
This form of therapy is used to teach coping skills and improve emotional regulation. It’s often used for individuals with severe anxiety symptoms.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
This therapy is often used for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It involves recalling traumatic events while receiving bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements.
Breathing Techniques
Breathing exercises can promote relaxation and reduce stress. There are many different breathing techniques that work in different ways. For example, ujjayi breathing, or ocean breathing, is a yoga breathing technique that has been shown to have a relaxing effect and reduce stress.
Guided Imagery
This is a technique that involves visualizing calming scenes or images. It can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Meditation
This is a practice that involves focusing your mind and eliminating the stream of thoughts that may be crowding your mind and causing stress.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
This is a technique that involves tensing and then releasing different muscle groups in the body. It can help reduce physical tension and promote relaxation.
Deep Breathing
This is a simple yet effective technique for reducing stress. It involves taking slow, deep breaths, which can help calm the nervous system.
Physical Activity
Regular physical activity can help reduce stress. It can be as simple as going for a walk.
Hugs
Physical touch, such as hugging, can release oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress.
Aromatherapy
Certain scents, such as lavender and chamomile, can have a calming effect and reduce stress.
Yoga and Tai Chi
These practices combine physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to reduce stress and increase feelings of calm.
Massage
This can help alleviate physical tension and reduce stress.
Laughter
Watching something that makes you laugh can reduce stress in a given moment and over time.
Ready to begin your journey to overcoming depression?
Contact me today to start your path to relief from depression. I provide personalized depression treatment and practical skills for a brighter and more emotionally balanced future:
- Assessment & goals
- Evidence-based therapy
- Supportive environment
- Sustainable skills