Depression
Major Depressive Disorder is one of the most common reasons why people seek out therapy. Most of the time when people talk about depression they think about sadness; however, depression is so much more than that.
Depression is more than that feeling post break-up when you're in a fog for a few days or even weeks. When people feel depressed they often feel empty or irritable all the time; in addition to that, there will often be a constant nagging feeling that they will never be enough and nothing will get better.
We (psychologists, scientists, doctors) don't really know why one person gets depressed and another person — in the exact situation — doesn't. But, we do have a pretty good idea what makes someone more vulnerable to depression.
When people feel depressed …
they often feel empty or irritable all the time
Risk factors that make
someone more
likely to develop
depression include:
Trauma
grief/loss
relationship problems,
genetics,
environment,
chronic pain/illness
generally feeling stagnant
Even if you or a loved one doesn't seem to fit into any of the categories above, sometimes the why isn't nearly as important as the 'what next.' The truth is that living with depression is difficult, but for most people it's temporary.
So if you can’t
stop thinking
about how bad
you feel … WHAT
CAN YOU DO?
The very first thing to do is to start by acknowledging that things that seem 'easy' on paper are genuinely hard
Depression makes the smallest tasks like getting dressed or going to the grocery store seem unbearable. That is why it is important and helpful to celebrate daily successes - nothing is too small or insignificant.
The next thing someone with depression should do is find a way to express their feelings.
Journaling can be a great resource here. You should also try to surround yourself with positive people; people who can and will be there for you in your time of need. Talk to family and friends about your struggles and work with them to identify ways in which they can be supportive.
Finally, Therapy is another helpful source of support for people with depression. Don't be afraid to reach out to a psychologist for help. If what you're doing isn't working, try something different!
Many psychologists, including the clinicians at New Perspective, utilize a person-centered approach to treating depression. This approach focuses on empathy, genuineness, and using a non-judgmental stance. We work to meet people where they are, help improve understanding of emotions, and identify ways to overcome the sadness.