Depression Treatment
Depression. Darkness. Heaviness. Sadness.
Depression is a struggle that many people face at times in their lives.
It is caused by a complex interplay of genetic, biological, personality and environmental factors. Almost one half (49%) of those who feel they have suffered from depression or anxiety have never gone to see a doctor about this problem. This is a statistic that needs to change, as depression is treatable! There is hope, healing and freedom through depression therapy and treatment. There is no need to stay isolated and suffer.
Depression doesn’t feel good. In fact, it feels unbearable and hopeless at times, causing irrational thoughts to grow. Thoughts of hopelessness and despair can move a normally rational person to think about suicide. This is one of the symptoms of clinical depression — suicidal thinking. This is one reason why it is so important to intervene as early as possible to treat the depressive thought patterns and teach coping skills that will empower and breed hopefulness.
What are the Symptoms of Depression?
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Increased weepiness and times of crying
- Some memory issues and forgetting that is not normal for the person
- Moves toward isolation and withdrawing from family and friends
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even when treated
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings
What’s the Most Effective Treatment?
The most proven treatment for depression is a blend of cognitive behavioural therapy, skills training and when indicated, medication as prescribed by your Medical Doctor or Psychiatrist.
Depression creates thought patterns that breed and create depression. As we identify these thought patterns and replace them, a person starts to feel better and his/her mood starts to improve. Be gracious towards yourself and take it one day at a time. Breaking the thought patterns takes a bit of practice and effort but it works. There is hope and healing for depression. Depression can be treated.