Depression

 Depression is a mood disorder that causes low mood. It differs, however, from the sadness we all experience from time-to-time. Depression is a lasting sadness that often leads to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness and a loss of interest in activities, among other symptoms. Depression can be treated because it is maintained by beliefs and behaviours.

In any given year, approximately 4.7% of Canadians over the age of 14 experience symptoms that meet the criteria for major depression. Several less severe forms of depression are also common. 

 Depression can range from mild to severe and lead to health problems, relationship issues, social isolation, and substance abuse. It can also lead to self-harm or suicide.

With treatment for depression, your therapist can help you resolve your symptoms of depression. Through treatment, you’ll also develop better coping skills so you can experience the joy and happiness you deserve.

The first criteria for a diagnosis of depression is a low mood and/or lack of interest and pleasure in things that you usually enjoy, lasting most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, despair, emptiness, irritability, frustration, or anger, as well as crying spells, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep patterns,

Other indicators are difficulty concentrating, unexplained physical pain, ruminations about death, or suicidal thoughts.  Importantly, a diagnosis is a measure of behaviours and emotions at a point in time and is not necessarily permanent.

  Depression is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Your lifestyle choices, relationships, and coping skills matter just as much, if not more so than genetics. Risk factors that make you more vulnerable to depression include loneliness and isolation, lack of social support, recent stressful life experiences, family history of depression, marital or relationship problems, financial strain, early childhood trauma or abuse, physical or emotional abuse, alcohol or drug abuse, unemployment or underemployment, health problems, major illness or chronic pain, the loss or death of a loved one, or genetic predisposition.

Understanding the root of your depression will help guide your therapist in creating the best treatment approach for you.