What is depression?

It has become a common language to call oneself depressed, however, feeling depressed or having the diagnosis or signs of clinical depression is different. Everyone feels sad or depressed sometimes, but the recurrent bouts of sadness, combined with hopelessness, and feeling unworthy, and unmotivated, call for attention and intervention.  Depression is a mood disorder and it affects how you feel, think, and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. It may impact normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life is not worth living. 

What does it look like in a person?

Some other common signs of depression include- angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, sleep disturbances, lack of energy, diminished interest in all activities, reduced appetite or increased cravings for food, anxiety, slowed thinking, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, or self-blame. Suicidal thoughts and unexplained pain are other common experiences of people with depression. 

What age group is depression most common in?

Depression has been seen and diagnosed across all ages, even children. According to the WHO report- Depression can happen to anyone. People who have lived through abuse, severe losses, or other stressful events are more likely to develop depression. Women are more likely to have depression than men.

Can Depression be treated?

Yes, depression of all kinds and severity can be treated. WHO reports- ‘Psychological treatments are the first treatments for depression. They can be combined with antidepressant medications in moderate and severe depression. Antidepressant medications are not needed for mild depression. Psychological treatments can teach new ways of thinking, coping, or relating to others. They may include talk therapy with professionals and supervised lay therapists. Talk therapy can happen in person or online.’

If you are experiencing any of these signs for a few weeks or more contact us to book a free consultation for depression counseling in Toronto, ON and understand if we are a good fit for you. Your health and life matter and psychotherapy can help you regain the confidence and normal interests that you seem to have lost.