Depression can be caused by situations such as the loss of a relationship or a job, financial difficulties or other life transitions.

Depression is often associated with the following symptoms: sadness, crying, withdrawal from others, poor concentration, change in sleeping patterns, an increase or decrease in appetite, hopelessness or suicidal thoughts.

Depression can take different forms and varies from person to person. Dysthymia, is a chronic but less severe form of depression that can manifest itself in symptoms like lethargy, poor self-esteem, loss of appetite and a general withdrawal from friends, activities and hobbies.

Some individuals endure a severe depressive episode which may become debilitating and requires medical intervention. Others have bi-polar disorder or manic-depression in which a person’s mood can fluctuate between depression and mania which can involve overspending, insomnia, grandiosity, delusional thinking and erratic behavior.

During counseling I will assess the severity of your depression, assess whether medication may be appropriate, and help you learn techniques for coping.

Image module