Depression may manifest from out of the blue, or it may result from a personal loss, producing persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness, helplessness, pessimism or guilt. Depression interferes with your motivation, concentration, and other aspects of everyday functioning, such as your sleep and appetite.
According to the World Health Organization, Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Globally, more than 300 million people of all ages suffer from the Depression. One in 16 Australians are currently experiencing Depression, and one in seven Australians will experience Depression in their lifetime. Depression can be experienced by people of all ages, and in becoming increasingly common in children.
Depression presents in many forms, including Major Depressive Disorder, or Dysthymia. Depressive episodes are also a feature of Bipolar Disorder.
Depression is often cyclical, and early treatment prevent recurrent episodes. Many studies have shown that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are effective treatments for Depression. Mindfulness strategies are also proving to be effective treatments for Depression.
Living with Depression
Everyone experiences an occasional blue mood. Yet, clinical depression is a more persistent experience of repetitive negative rumination, bleak outlook, and lack of energy. Depression is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. People with depression cannot merely "pull themselves together" to get better.
Depression is related to a genetic predisposition. However, our modern-day lifestyles with the ever-growing pressures, our overuse of electronic devices in favour for direct social contact, and a focus on material wealth at the expense of rich experiences and social connection also play a role in Depression. There is also growing evidence that an emphasis on early childhood achievement at the expensive of free play can play a part in the development of Depression.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. We can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing.
Grief is a natural reaction to loss, whether it’s the loss of a partner, a loved one, a relationship, a home or an unborn child. It will often bring on feelings like anger, sadness, shock, guilt, and remorse.
Through therapy we can help you to develop better coping skills and change negative patterns of thinking so that you can more easily cope with your loss but also ensure these issues do not re-occur.
Anxiety is a common disorder that will affect one quarter of Australians in their lifetime, and one in seven Australians currently experiencing an Anxiety disorder.
Anxiety is a normal response to something that is dangerous or stressful. This can be protective and help to motivate us to problem solve when encountering a dangerous situation. Anxiety can cause you to feel nervousness, worry and dread. It can be problematic when it is persistent, distressing, and gets in the way of everyday life. This is when you may need to seek psychological treatment.
There are a number of anxiety disorders, including Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, among others. Anxiety is also often accompanied with depression, and one in six Australians are currently experiencing both anxiety and depression.
Anxiety is often treated successfully using psychological treatment, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is one of the most effective treatment options. Mindfulness is another therapy shown to be an effective treatment method for anxiety.
Recognising signs of Anxiety
Anxiety can manifest in restless, irritability, and feeling on edge. Anxiety can also cause difficulty concentrating or controlling their emotions; along with physical symptoms, such as fatigue, trembling, disturbed sleep, nausea, stomach aches (especially in children), headaches, and muscle tension.
Anxiety often involves excessive worry about any aspect of life, from social situations and family dynamics, to physical health and professional concerns.
‘Mental health’ is often associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and others.
According to the World Health Organisation, however, mental health is “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”
So rather than being about ‘what’s the problem?’ it’s really about ‘what’s going well?'
Through psychological counselling you can enjoy a fulfilling life by developing clear and achievable goals in your personal and/or professional life. Psychological counselling can assist with building confidence and self-esteem, bolstering resilience to better manage stress in the face of adversity, and build and maintain positive relationships with self and others.
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