Experiencing sadness and feeling down is a common part of the human experience, especially in response to life's disappointments and losses. However, when a low mood or lack of interest in activities and relationships becomes overwhelming and starts to affect daily life, it could be a sign of depression. At this point, one may feel helpless and lose hope, as depression can feel like an inescapable burden that is difficult to overcome.

How depression presents:

• Feelings of emptiness, worry, anxiety, worthlessness, guilt, irritability, hurt, or restlessness

• Loss of interest in relationships or activities that once brought satisfaction and pleasure

• Loss of appetite or overeating

• Problems concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions

• Inability to sleep (insomnia) or excessive sleep

• Fatigue

• Loss of sexual energy

•   Aches, pains, or digestive problems that are resistant to treatment

•   Occurs across a spectrum of severity, including mild feelings of sadness, low self-esteem, apathy, and disengagement, moderate levels of emptiness, hopelessness, inactivity, and body symptoms, and severe loss of energy, inability to get out of bed or leave the house, feelings of dread and despair, thoughts of suicide, withdrawal from everyday activities and relationships.

As a therapist, I can help by:

• Conducting a thorough assessment to examine personal history, family dynamics, social pressures, and emotional patterns or reactions to understand the root causes of the depression

• Identifying meaningful aspects of the depression and its symptoms to develop an individualized treatment plan

•   Providing support and structure to help change habitual ways of responding to relationships or interpreting events and experiences

• Focusing on strengths and building on them, rather than perceived weaknesses, to foster resilience and well-being

• Utilizing evidence-based counseling techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to address the specific symptoms and issues related to depression

•   Teaching and applying techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and gratitude practices to manage emotions, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being

•   In some cases, the use of medication may be recommended as an adjunct to therapy, and the therapist may collaborate with a psychiatrist or other healthcare provider to monitor the client's medication regimen.

• Helping the client take step-by-step actions towards achieving their goals.