Problems like the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or the fear of losing your job are quite stressful. You feel sad, scared and tired. You might not even feel like getting out of bed every morning. These feelings are natural and generally people are able to get over them in a short time. If it lasts for more than a few months however, affecting your day to day life, then you may be suffering from clinical depression. The clinic of Dr. Paul Johnston can assess how you are feeling and what you are going through, and help answer any questions that you might have about your experience, offering suggestions and providing counselling or therapy sessions if needed.
What Is Depression?
It is a major mood disorder which can affect anyone at any point in time. As per the official website of Mental Health, Canada 11 per cent of men and 16 per cent of women in Canada experience major depression in the course of their lives. It changes the way people feel and behave. People suffering with this cannot simply snap out of it and may need support in order to feel better.
Depression can affect anybody irrespective of age or social status. People going through negative life changes like financial loss or even something generally positive like having a baby may experience it.
Signs That You Are Experiencing Depression
As emotions vary among people, so do the symptoms. It’s important to remember that these signs may also be experienced outside of depression. Depression symptoms can be grouped as follows:
1. Behaviour
No interest in talking to others or going out
Not getting things done at work or school
No conversation with close family or friends
Increased use of alcohol or sedatives
Unable to enjoy activities
Inability to concentrate
2. Feelings
Guilty
Overwhelmed
Irritated
Frustrated
Low self-confidence
Sad
Indecisive
Disappointed
Miserable
3. Thoughts
‘Life is useless’
‘I am a failure’
‘It’s my fault’
‘People are better without me’
4. Physical
Tired continuously
Sick
Headaches or muscle pains
Loss of appetite
Significant weight loss or gain
Sleep problems
If you experience any of these shifts in moods, energy, thinking and behaviour, let us know.
Importance of Seeking Help
The proper medical care can speed up your recovery. There are numerous benefits of assistance, such as:
You are no longer feel completely on your own. Once you seek help, you have your counsellor or a team of them to help you with it. You deserve help just like anyone else. Many people suffering from the flu, would go to the doctor without any hesitation. Mental or emotional pain is no different from physical afflictions. Moreover, talking about your issues can help you to see them from a different perspective.
Psychiatrists or counsellors are experienced people who have handled many similar cases and possess the necessary expertise to help you. Whatever guidance or medication they offer will help you make calmer and receptive to the therapy.
Support from family and friends can be essential to beating depression. Your loved ones care for you and often understand how certain issues affect your mental health. Even though this is a big help, not everyone identifies with or is able to understand your situation. A psychotherapist can help you to understand the dynamics of your well-being and help you recover.
If you feel any of your loved ones are going through depression, take a step ahead and talk to them. Help them as much as you can. If you believe that you may be suffering from a depression, reach out for help.
Contact us to schedule a counselling session, marriage therapy or assessment of your depression. Head over to our other blog to learn what to expect in your first counselling session. Please visit our FAQ section to learn more about our services.