According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Globally, more than 300 million people of all ages suffer from the disorder.
Depression often involves persistent sad, anxious, or empty modo, the inability to enjoy yourself, feelings of hopelessness or pessimism; grief, loneliness and feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
Fatigue or a sense of being “slowed down” are also common, as are restlessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
Episodes of depression are characterized by feelings of guilt, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, tearfulness and shame, and by physical manifestations such as either having a very poor appetite and difficulty sleeping with accompanying anxiety and agitation, or by eating and sleeping much more than usual, with a sense of having very little energy. Sometimes upon awakening, a depressed person feels that it is almost impossible to face the day and has a gnawing sense of dread and a feeling of physical heaviness. Persistent physical symptoms may include headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.
Activities that once brought joy can feel a chore and there is often disinterest or ambivalence about social interactions. Often times, when somebody is experiencing a significant depression they want nothing more than to be left alone. This chain of thoughts, feelings and behaviors can spiral into difficulties with interpersonal and vocational aspects of life. Already challenging situations can become further entangled and overwhelming. Prolonged time in a clinical depression can reinforce entrenched, negative thinking, increase vulnerability to future depressive episodes and further complicate the path back to optimal wellbeing.
People with mild depression can typically get through the day and enjoy pockets of happiness, but often feel something is lacking or that they should explore alternative paths in life. Initiating and maintaining sustainable change can be an overwhelming challenge.
When struggling with depression, it is important to realize that it is treatable. Psychotherapy helps. Together we explore and analyze here and now the different processes and mechanisms that led us to feel that way and we work to transform them, activating internal resources and building new ones.
People often feel some degree of relief in the first few sessions, although sustainable improvement can take time. Taking an initial step towards improving the situation can be an empowering experience, instilling a sense of hope and making difficult emotions experienced throughout the week more tolerable. As the therapeutic process progresses, the core issues can be worked through and sustainable gains are built. Patients often enjoy a greater sense of self-esteem, deeper satisfaction in relationships, and an increased ability to tolerate emotional distress and challenges.
Therapy is challenging at times, but I strive to make it a comfortable and stimulating experience. I think laughter and humor are a critical component and often more healing than tears.