Depression

Rediscover Hope

You are not alone, and help is available. Many of my clients find comfort in understanding that their struggles do not define them, and there are many paths to rediscover hope and reclaim joy in life. Throughout this journey, I offer compassionate support and guidance during what may feel like an overwhelming time.

What is Depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. It affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves and can interfere with daily functioning. Depression is more than just occasional feelings of sadness or a temporary response to life’s challenges—it is a serious condition that may require treatment.

Key Symptoms of Depression

Emotional symptoms: Persistent sadness, hopelessness, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and irritability.
Cognitive symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
Physical symptoms: Fatigue, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping), and unexplained physical aches and pains.
Behavioral symptoms: Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities, or decreased motivation to engage in routine tasks.
Thought patterns: Recurrent thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicide.

Depressive thoughts

“I’m not good enough.”
“No one cares about me.”
“Things will never get better.”
“There’s no point in trying.”
“Nothing good ever happens to me.”
“I’m a burden to my family and friends.”
“Everyone would be better off without me.”
“I’m all alone.”
“No one would notice if I disappeared.”
“I don’t want to live anymore.”
“It would be better if I just disappeared.”

These thoughts often stem from distorted thinking patterns that depression reinforces, such as all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and magnifying the negative while minimizing the positive. They can feel overwhelming and real to the person experiencing them, even if they are not accurate reflections of reality.

Breaking the Cycle

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. Early intervention can improve outcomes significantly.