Depression
Introduction
There are many different definitions or descriptions of depression, and generally people have different experiences of depression although there may be some common symptoms. However, it is important that if you think you may be depressed to speak to somebody about it...there is obviously something going on to cause your concern so talking can only help clarify matters.

Some Symptoms of Depression

Disliking or even hating yourself or people in general.
Thinking negatively; always seeing the worst in everything.
Finding everything a terrible effort.
Being very irritable.
Sleeping too little or too much.
Eating too little or too much.
Heavy dependency on alcohol or drugs.
Cutting yourself off from other people including loss of interest in sex.
Unable to stop crying or unable to release tears.

Dealing with Depression

Depression spans a spectrum. At one end you can struggle on leading a more or less normal life, but feeling awful; at the other end the depression may be life-threatening and you may feel suicidal.

How can you help yourself?

With moderate depression

Keep as occupied as you can with things that really interest you.
Get physical - play sport, jog, dance - do anything that stops you brooding.
Do anything which makes you laugh.
Look after yourself physically. Eat healthily and avoid drugs.
Pay attention to your appearance to make yourself feel good.
Treat yourself from time to time.
Try to make your living environment as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
Ask for help. Others are usually very willing to listen.
Don't hold your feelings in. Cry and get angry if you need to.
Practice challenging some of your negative ideas - especially about yourself. Are you really a worse person or are you just judging yourself too harshly?

For severe depression you need to consider getting help. Severe depression is when:

You cannot function normally e.g. you are not going to work/eating/getting out of bed.
You are actively considering suicide.

Around 75% of the population suffers from depression at some time in their lives. If you learn to recognise your own particular set of symptoms which tell you you're depressed, and acquaint yourself with the coping mechanisms for trying to deal with them, you can often learn how to manage your depression. It is very important not to think you are weak or inadequate because you are depressed, but to marshall your resources for finding a way out of your depression. Many people find it helpful to read and learn more about the management of depression.

Taking Control - See Counsellor Resources for some web links

It may be difficult to put any of the above suggestions into action if you are very depressed. If that is the case, then it is important that you seek help. Why not try talking to someone or try an introductory session with TalkTherapyLondon.

TalkTherapyLondon can help in supporting you with Depression and has therapists with relevant experience in dealing with depressed clients. Sessions start from £35 so why not contact us and take the next step.

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