Depression

Depression is not just merely feeling low or down; it is accompanied by a range of symptoms, including, physical, social, and emotional symptoms. Many individuals with depression find it challenging to maintain their daily routines, which can involve difficulties getting out of bed, managing personal hygiene, attending work or school, and performing tasks effectively.   

Common symptoms of depression may include:  

• feeling depressed or irritable

• little interest or pleasure in activities or low motivation

• insomnia or hypersomnia

• fatigue or a lack of energy

• poor appetite or overeating 

• poor concentration on tasks or making decisions

• social withdrawal

• feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt

• thoughts of self-harm or suicide

• psychomotor retardation (e.g., slowed speech, thinking, and body movement)  

• agitation or restlessness

Depression symptoms in children and teens: 

Depression can manifest differently in children and adolescents, some signs include: 

In children: 

• complaints of physical symptoms like stomach aches, headache, or nausea 

• expressing sadness  

• reluctance to go to school or spend time friends 

• clinginess 

• worries

In teens:

• irritability and anger

• decline in academic performance or procrastination  

• oversleeping 

• self-harming behaviors like cutting 

• isolation

Seek professional support if: 

• you experience a depressive mood, especially if it persists for more than half of the days over the last week. 

• if you have suicidal thoughts.

  • If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please see a doctor or contact emergency help immediately.

What to expect from therapy? 

In therapy, you can expect to: 

• reflect on the meaning of your life and significant relationships.  

• recognize, accept, and learn to cope with depressive moods. 

• work on identifying and reframing negative self-talk.  

• develop and strengthen meaningful relationships for support.

Treatment for depression often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and social support. These approaches are tailored to the individual's needs and can provide valuable tools and strategies to manage symptoms.

Different counseling models used for depression include:  

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)