Most people will experience feeling blue or sad at some time in their lives. However, sometimes this sadness increases and persists, leading to major depression.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and estimates that globally 350 million people are experiencing depression.
There are various theories regarding the cause of depression. They include biological factors such as: genetic factors, neurotransmitter disturbances and psychosocial factors, such as adverse experiences in childhood, chronic major difficulties, undesirable life events, limited social network and low self-esteem.
Depression is linked to low mood, sadness, loneliness, despair and the inability to experience pleasure. You also may find it difficult to engage in pleasurable activities and experience loss of appetite, sleep disturbances and weight loss/gain, abdominal pain, and a deterioration in relationships.
If you have experienced two or more major depressive episodes, which consist of depressed mood and/or loss of interest and pleasure in life activities for at least two weeks, and at least 5 of the following symptoms:
1) Depressed mood most of the day
2) Diminished interest or pleasure in all or most activities
3) Significant unintentional weight loss or gain
4) Insomnia or sleeping too much
5) Agitation or slow movements which are noticed by others
6) Fatigue or loss of energy
7) Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
8) Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness
9) Recurrent thoughts of death
In our practice we tailor the course of therapy to suit a client’s needs. This is done in a collaborative manner, and we will help you figure out which therapy is most suited to help you feel better. Some clients need space to explore their feelings and some clients like a more direct approach.
In the course of therapy, we also apply Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) which is an evidence-based approach to treating depression and combine it with other forms of therapy such as Person Centered Therapy and Gestalt therapy. Your therapist will explore the different options with you.
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