a person sits on a brown leather armchair with their hand resting on their forehead, appearing contemplative or distressed. the background is dark and the person is wearing a black long sleeved shirt.

Managing Depression

 

Depression is more than just occasional feelings of sadness, moodiness or low motivation. These are things most people experience from time to time. Depression is not the same. It lasts a long time, like days, weeks, months, or years. Depression is not like normal mood swings as it can affect relationships, work, school, and daily life. It is much more than simply feeling low or sad.

Symptoms Of Depression

Depression is characterised by a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including:

  • A feeling of emptiness: a profound sense of emptiness or emotional numbness
  • Unrelenting sadness: a persistent, deep-seated sadness that does not seem to lift, even in the absence of an clear cause
  • Loss of interest: a marked decrease in the enjoyment of activities that were once pleasurable. This loss of interest can affect hobbies, social interactions, and everyday experiences.
  • Lack of motivation: depression often makes it hard to find the motivation to attend school or work. This makes it challenging to fulfil your responsibilities.
  • Fatigue or loss of energy: constant feelings of tiredness or low energy are common in depression
  • Sleep problems: changes in sleep patterns, such as difficulty falling asleep or excessive sleep
portrait young woman with low self esteem sitting by window home

Counselling And Therapeutic Approach

Most often treatment methods like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based approaches can help to learn strategies to manage and overcome the troubling thoughts and feelings of depression. CBT is a structured and goal-oriented therapy that helps you identify and change negative thoughts patterns and behaviours. Mindfulness-based approaches often include techniques such as mindfulness meditation and increase awareness in the present moment.

At Mind Lift Psychology, your psychologist will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This may involve a combination of therapy and lifestyle adjustments to effectively address and alleviate the symptoms of depression. Remember, there is hope and help available for those living with depression.

To make an appointment, please call our reception staff
on (07) 3831 3936 or fill out our contact form here.