Depression

It’s a hard truth, but…

Depression is among the most common mental health issues in the United States. It’s a mood disorder that can happen at any stage in life but typically occurs during adulthood.

You might become depressed after a major loss: the death of a loved one, a career change, or the end of a relationship.

Or it might show up seasonally – at certain phases of life as we age and grow.

Depression can even happen “out of the blue” for no obvious reason.

You are not weak, lazy, or worthless.

Your depression might make you feel that way, but don’t let it fool you. Depression can happen to anyone at any time.

Depressive symptoms can affect your thoughts, body, emotions, and social interactions.

There’s the persistent sadness…

There’s the sluggishness, constantly tired and unmotivated…

You lose interest in things that once brought you great joy.

Your life might feel aimless as you question your direction and self-worth.

And no matter how hard you try to just “snap out of it,” it never works.

It’s a dangerous cycle…

Depression often triggers behaviors and decisions that worsen symptoms, turning into a dangerous cycle.

For example, if you lack energy, you may stop caring for yourself, putting aside work or exercise, and avoiding your loved ones. These actions can deepen your lack of motivation, loneliness, and self-criticism, thus strengthening that loop.

The cycle can habituate into consistent unhealthy patterns as time passes. You may opt for harmful or ineffective ways to avoid feeling depressed such as drinking or binge eating.

But instead of finding relief, you end up feeling trapped as you struggle to find a way out.

Have you heard of “high-functioning” depression?

It’s not an official medical diagnosis because it doesn’t fit within the traditional depression framework.

Instead of exhibiting the “typical” symptoms of sadness, lethargy, and hopelessness, you suffer from the “hidden symptoms” of depression. Such symptoms usually go unnoticed by others and don’t seem to impair your day-to-day functioning.

To the outside world, you’re a productive citizen – even successful. You make do. You get by. You appear to be handling things just fine.

But when the workday is done, your mask comes off, and your world turns dark. You repeat this cycle day after day until you reach your boiling point.

It’s like turning up the temperature in a room one degree at a time. You might not recognize the problem until you are overwhelmed by pervasive unhappiness or a stressful life event that brings you to your limit.

Most high-functioning types have “dysthymia” (also known as “persistent depressive disorder”). Dysthymia is a milder, longer-lasting depression marked by lagging energy or fatigue. These people are generally unhappy but don’t meet the definition of major depression, which is more severe. Instead, they slap on a brave face and go on about their business.

We can empower you to step out of this spiral.

That’s the goal of depression therapy. Together, we can peel off the layers of your suffering, reconnect with joy, and find healthier ways to move forward.

Helping you open up to feel heard and understood…

Usually, when people say, “How are you feeling?” It is meant to be filled with brief small talk that’s not too heavy because real emotions make others uncomfortable.

Not in this space.

In this space, you can feel and voice your emotions without fear of backlash. This is a nonjudgment space. Feeling understood is a prerequisite to satisfying relationships.

Without it, we can feel lonely and unable to connect to others fully. In a session, you will be actively heard, and your emotions will be validated, which is the starting point to being understood.

Exploring your thoughts and emotions…

Many people accept their thoughts as truth without judgment. These invasive and non-helpful thoughts often leave you with anxiousness, depression, and hopelessness.

We will explore the accuracy of your thoughts and how these intrusive, negative, and overwhelming thoughts impact your mood and behavior.

We will reflect, reframe, and rewire the neural pathways that have hijacked your life. You will begin to feel more like yourself without the constant self-criticism.

Take a moment and imagine it because it is possible.

Shifting harmful habits and mindsets into healthier alternatives…

Let’s shift gears. The isolation, poor sleep, poor appetite, and irritability all have to go.

Easier said than done. Your brain works through a cycle of cues, routine, and reward. That means the brain gets triggered and automatically goes into the habit. It’s the easy and familiar way, even when unhelpful to us.

Learning to understand and recognize these themes in your life is what you can expect to explore during our sessions. We spotlight the cues that send your brain down this familiar road. We will explore alternatives that fit best within your lifestyle.

Deepening your relationships…

Your relationships are suffering. Let’s figure out what relationships are worth improving and ending. That sounds slightly harsh, but therapy brings about increased awareness and empowerment. That empowerment allows you to make choices that you have known all along.

Feeling the weight lifted and dedicating your time to meaningful relationships. Being more confident to express how you feel, establishing boundaries, and setting aside time to nurture the relationship.

Forming new connections…

Have you thought, “How do I repeatedly attract the same type of person?” Or “Why do I let good opportunities pass me by?”

Let’s find the answer to those questions together as we work on increasing self-awareness and confidence. You will feel more empowered to form a connection with the right type of people. Showing up as your most authentic self increases the opportunity to form real and lasting connections.

Recovering your self-worth…

Who are you outside of all the negative thoughts? There are two selves, but one has been overshadowed by self-criticism. Think back. Happy, confident, and outgoing. The most important relationship is the relationship with self.

We will work to track these critical thoughts, reflect on them, and evaluate their purpose. Are they linked to negative aspects of your life you would like to change? Together, we will uncover the missed messages often connected with self-criticism.

Practicing self-compassion and curiosity…

The most important relationship is the relationship with self. Let’s make it the absolute best. “How,” you might be wondering?

Let’s listen to your thoughts without judgment, assess your beliefs about the thoughts, and practice forgiveness.

Finding meaning and purpose to achieve your goals…

Something is missing from your life, and you can’t put your finger on it. Even when life seems to be on the upward side, you can’t fully enjoy it. The monotony is draining, and you know there is more.

You long for meaning and purpose that will connect the missing pieces and bring about something more fulfilling. The missing pieces are waiting to be found. We begin with evaluating what’s currently working and what’s not working. Often, fear of change can fog our view of what’s not working. We will work on small and measurable goals and evaluate them during sessions.

There is a path forward.

Let’s talk about how depression is affecting your life. With the right support and care, depression is very treatable.

Depression is a serious mental health challenge. It might be sapping your energy, intruding on your peace, and making you feel hopeless about the future…

But this isn’t you, so don’t take it personally!

Give me a call today to schedule your free consultation. Let’s talk about how I can help: (901) 281-7169.