Depression

When you are feeling depressed, it’s common to feel alone, like it is you against the world. Depression is one of the most common mental health problems and one in five people in Australia will experience depression at some stage in their lives. You are not alone in your struggle so don’t be alone in dealing with it. There are a range of highly effective treatment options and we can find the best options for you so you can effectively manage your depression.

Depression affects a person’s thoughts, behaviours, feelings, and physical well-being. Depressed people experience intense feelings for long periods of time and often without reason.

Signs of a depressed mood include:

  • lowered self-esteem or self-worth
  • lack of motivation
  • poor concentration and memory
  • reluctance to engage in meaningful activities that were once pleasurable
  • inability to sleep / insomnia
  • changes in appetite – either loss of appetite or over eating
  • less ability to control emotions such as pessimism, anger, guilt, irritability and anxiety
  • varying emotions throughout the day
  • reduced pain tolerance
  • lack of sex drive

Depressed individuals may also have suicidal thoughts. If you are experiencing depression, it’s important to seek help from a practitioner as soon as possible. At Foundation Psychology we provide support for people who are depressed by helping them to:

  • restructure negative and irrational thoughts using Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
  • increase social support networks
  • Exploring broader personality factors that contribute to these feelings
  • Using narrative therapy to increase self-awareness
  • Providing meditative, relaxation, and self-care strategies

Psychological therapy, also known as talk therapy or psychotherapy, can be very effective in helping people with depression and is the main treatment offered at Foundation Psychology. Here are several ways in which psychological therapy can be beneficial for individuals struggling with depression:

  1. Providing a supportive and empathetic environment:Therapy sessions offer a safe and confidential space where individuals can openly discuss their feelings, experiences, and concerns. Having a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist can help individuals feel understood and supported, which can be especially valuable when dealing with depression.
  2. Identifying and understanding the underlying causes: Therapists work with individuals to explore the root causes of their depression. Understanding the triggers and underlying issues can provide insight into why the depression developed in the first place. This self-awareness can be an essential step towards healing.
  3. Learning coping strategies: Therapists teach coping skills and techniques to help individuals manage their depression symptoms effectively. These strategies can include stress-reduction techniques, problem-solving skills, relaxation exercises, and healthier ways of thinking.
  4. Challenging negative thought patterns: Depression often involves negative thought patterns, such as self-blame, pessimism, and hopelessness. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy commonly used to challenge and reframe these negative thoughts, promoting more positive and balanced thinking.
  5. Promoting behavioural changes: Depression can lead to withdrawal from social activities and responsibilities, which can exacerbate the condition. Therapists can help individuals set realistic goals and encourage them to engage in activities that promote well-being and a sense of accomplishment.
  6. Addressing unresolved emotions: Sometimes, depression can be linked to unresolved emotions or past traumas. Through therapy, individuals can process these emotions and work towards healing and closure.
  7. Providing a sense of control: Depression can often make individuals feel overwhelmed and helpless. Engaging in therapy empowers them to take an active role in their recovery and regain a sense of control over their lives.
  8. Building resilience: Therapy can help individuals build emotional resilience, making them better equipped to handle life’s challenges and reduce the likelihood of future depressive episodes.
  9. Preventing relapse: For those who have experienced depression before, therapy can help identify early warning signs and develop strategies to prevent future relapses.
  10. Collaborative support: The therapeutic relationship itself can be a source of support and encouragement for individuals as they navigate their depression journey.

It’s essential to remember that different individuals may respond better to different therapeutic approaches, and therapy might be used in combination with other treatments, such as medication, for more severe cases of depression. Seeking professional help from a qualified psychologist is crucial for developing an individualized treatment plan that suits specific needs and circumstances.