DEPRESSION

Characterized as a mood disorder, depression often develops due to persistent feelings of sadness or a loss of interest, passion, or motivation. Depression often impacts how one feels, thinks, and behaves and can develop into various emotional and/or physical problems that impact your ability to function in your day-to-day life.  

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Types of Depression

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• Major Depressive Disorder

• Dysthymic Disorder

• Minor Depression

• Postpartum Depression

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Common Symptoms of Depression 

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• A loss of interest in things or activities that use to promote joy; 

• Difficulty sleeping

• Changes in eating habits;

• Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness;

• Feeling more or easily overwhelmed; 

• Increased anger, irritability, or frustration; 

• Increased tendency to want to be alone; 

• Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements; 

• Difficulty concentrating; and/or, 

• Increased thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or suicidality. 

Depression in Children and Teens

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• Feelings of sadness or irritability;

• Increased attachment to a parent or caregiver; 

• Increased feelings of negative self-worth; 

• Complaints of aches and pains; 

• Increased expressions of worries; 

• Resisting attending school; 

• Poor performance or attendance in school; 

• Increased defiance;

• Experimenting with recreational drug or alcohol use; 

• Avoidance of social interactions; and/or, 

• Noticeable changes in diet or eating habits. 

Is it Time to Make a Change?

While it may seem inevitable that depression will impact us at some point in our lives, allowing ourselves to fall into a deeper depressive episode is not the only option. There are many ways to take an active approach to understand, treat, and heal from depression. If you are noticing a change in your emotional, physical, or mental health that is preventing you from engaging in enjoyable or pleasurable activities, it is time to make a change. With various proven treatments to help with depression, there is no need to struggle alone with the hope that changes will occur. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) our therapists can support you in overcoming and alleviating the symptoms you are experiencing.