Research shows that nearly 1 in 12 Americans has struggled with depression at some point in their lives. Depression does not discriminate who it affects. In its mildest forms, it may cause heightened feelings of insecurity, stress, and general agitation. However, severe depression can result in significant impediments in one’s overall quality of life.
Psychotherapy and counseling for depression can help you manage your condition productively and effectively. Such mental health treatment provides you with both the insight and practical tools for improving your well-being. Read on for more information about psychotherapy and counseling for depression.
Depression and Counseling: When Is It Time To Seek Help?
Are you questioning if the relationship between depression and counseling will help you?
While there isn’t a perfect time to seek help, the following depressive symptoms may suggest that treatment could be beneficial:
- Feeling sad for most or all of the day
- Feeling worthless or hopeless about the future
- Experiencing severe changes in appetite
- Having problems with sleep
- Feeling more agitated or irritable than usual
- Struggling with suicidal thoughts or self-injurious behavior
- Experiencing unexplained body aches and pains
- Feeling fatigued throughout the day
If you struggle with some or all of these symptoms, you might be struggling with clinical depression. If you’ve tried coping or treating these issues on your own but haven’t found success, it’s probably best to seek professional support.
Like most mental health conditions, depression can evolve and progress with time. You do not need to prolong your suffering. No matter how long you’ve been struggling, depression and counseling can help you find much-needed relief and comfort.
What Depression Counseling Techniques Will You Learn?
Depression and counseling isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula, and therapists can approach depression treatment differently.
In therapy, you might learn more about how your past experiences impact your current self. You may confront subconscious defenses or feelings associated with your depression. In doing this work, you will invariably learn new ways of perceiving and coping with your life circumstances.
When taking depression and counseling into consideration, you should consider the following factors:
- The severity of depression (i.e., presence of suicidal thoughts)
- The presence of co-occurring issues (substance use, eating disorders, etc.)
- The impact of depression on other areas of life (relationships, work, financial situation)
- A history of trauma
- Prior experiences with depression and counseling
These factors will help your therapist create appropriate counseling goals for depression. If you are struggling with other issues, these factors will also shape your overall treatment plan.
Counseling Anxiety and Depression
Many people struggle with symptoms of both anxiety and depression. Failing to address these symptoms can lead to unnecessary suffering. It can also lead to more problems in essential areas of your life (i.e., your physical health, interpersonal relationships, career).
Lumos Counseling PC specializes in depression and counseling. Whether it’s your first therapy session or your hundredth, your depression doesn’t have to define your self-esteem or happiness anymore. You can learn how to live a meaningful and fulfilling life regardless of your condition.
Contact Lumos PC today to get started on your journey towards wellness!