Depression

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Self Esteem

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Depression

Depression is a common condition that will affect around one in 10 people at some point in their life. It is a complicated illness that affects each person differently and has a wide variety of symptoms and causes. 

The unhappiness and low mood that characterises depression is very different to just feeling down or sad. Sufferers will experience a vast spectrum of troubling emotions and physical problems, all of which will stay with them instead of going away. Many will also begin to emotionally detach themselves from those around them. They will withdraw into an isolated world of their own - one that is commonly described as a 'prison with no windows or doors' or a 'black hole'. 

As a result, living with depression can be very difficult, not only for sufferers, but also for those around them. Despite this, many sufferers will wait a long time before seeking help, especially if they fear it will see them rejected, ridiculed or deprived of a sense of control. Others may simply be afraid to confront their problems. 

Counselling for depression can form an essential part of recovery and personal development for those living with the condition. 


Symptoms of depression
As aforementioned, the symptoms of depression are varied and complex. As a result, many people may not know they are depressed, and may confuse the condition and subsequent impaired functioning with a physical illness - especially if they lose weight. 

Generally though, depression exists in the form of unrelenting low mood or sadness, a loss of interest in pleasurable things and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. These symptoms will vary in intensity, and the frequency and length of episodes will also differ. Sometimes depression can last for weeks or months. Ultimately, the more symptoms, the stronger they are and the longer they last, the more likely someone is living with depression. 

Other symptoms of depression that help to clarify diagnosis are:

Psychological symptoms
  • Feelings of worthlessness.
  • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide.
  • Feeling constantly anxious, tearful and worried.
  • Poor concentration and indecisiveness.
  • Irritability and intolerance of others.
  • Not getting enough enjoyment out of life.
  • Low self-esteem.
  • Excessive and inappropriate guilt.
  • Having no motivation or interest in things.
  • Feeling like life is a 'black hole'.
  • Hallucinations - in rare cases some people may experience psychotic symptoms.
Physical symptoms
  • Changes in sleeping patterns - broken nights or oversleeping.
  • Changes in eating patterns - loss of appetite or overeating.
  • Tiredness and loss of energy.
  • Persistent headaches and/or stomach upsets.
  • Chronic pain.
  • Moving or speaking slower than usual.
  • Loss of libido

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"  Lao Tzu