Do you often feel blue or tearful? Lost interest in things that used to make you happy? Do you feel exhausted even when you’ve had a full night’s sleep? These are common symptoms of depression. Other symptoms include loss of self-worth, guilt feelings, dread and sometimes suicidal thoughts. Depression is painful! Sometimes it’s hard to figure out why you are depressed, especially when nothing seems particularly wrong in your life. I have heard a lot of clients say that they have a lot to be grateful for, and they shouldn’t be depressed. But judging oneself can just make matters worse. Sometimes there is an obvious cause, such as a loss, rejection, or life transition.

The good news is that for most people, depression is treatable

If you have been depression free for most of your life, the chances are extremely good that with professional treatment, you will get back to your normal level of functioning within a few months (sometimes more depending on severity and other factors). For people who have been depressed for years, have additional physical or mental conditions, or difficult life circumstances, progress may be slower, but treatment can still provide some relief to start with.

My approach to treating depression begins with assessing possible causes and developing a treatment plan to address causes as well as symptoms.

It is not always necessary to understand the causes completely to make progress. Sometimes clarity comes along the way.

Although not completely understood, causes are often biochemical in nature, which might explain why you may feel depressed for no apparent reason. It is important to get a thorough medical examination to rule out any medical conditions that might be causing or contributing to your symptoms. If physical exercise is part of your treatment plan (which it is for most people) than getting an ok from your doctor on that front is good too.

Studies show that therapy alone can be very effective in reducing or eliminating depression. Even if the causes are biochemical, there are many natural ways to change brain chemistry, including physical exercise and support from loved ones and friends, and one’s therapist. For moderate to severe depression, a combination of therapy and medication can be the best approach.

I combine elements of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Control mastery (a psychodynamic therapy), and Dialectical behavior therapy in my approach, and always try to find what is most helpful for you.

You may also find yourself engaging in unhealthy coping behaviors during a depressive episode

Overeating, drinking alcohol or use of other mind-altering substances can give temporary relief but just make depression worse in the long run. Alcohol in particular is a brain depressant and interferes with healthy sleep patterns.

I may encourage you to start with a simple homework assignment, such as doing one mastery goal and one pleasure goal each day. Mastery goals are things that you may not feel like doing but will give you a sense of accomplishment after you have finished. They could be simple things like taking a shower or going for a short walk. It all depends on what is appropriate for you. Pleasure goals are activities that are fun or relaxing. Since one of the most common symptoms of depression is loss of pleasure in activities you used to enjoy, it is not reasonable to expect these things to be as fun as they used to be but can be good to do them anyway. They may spark some positive emotions.

Getting started is the hardest part

You may feel hopeless and alone, that no one will understand or be able to help. I get it! It’s very hard to try something new when you are depressed. If you have been on a long, arduous journey already, it is all the more difficult. I have worked with lots of people over the years with depression, often severe and complex, with varying degrees of success, but in most cases, very positive results. If you think my approach might be a good fit for your needs, click the link below to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation. I look forward to talking with you!