Online support from Clear-Clarity Counselling Services in Gillingham Kent
How to recognise feelings of depression and seeking help
We all suffer from low mood at times and life events can truly impact how we feel. These
events can be related to bereavement, divorce, loneliness, trauma, childhood experiences,
stress, redundancy, money problems and many more.
These life events can cause feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness, grief, low self-esteem, and
confusion. But, learning to recognise when this spills over into depression is vital for
effective management.
Depression is a mood disorder that affect many people all over the world, it goes beyond
feelings of low mood and impacts our emotional, behavioural, and cognitive functioning.
Listed below are some of the changes that can be experienced.
Genetic vulnerability: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to depression.
Family history plays a role, and certain genes may increase susceptibility to depressive
episodes.
Depression can be linked to…
Other mental health problems. Conditions like anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD), or bipolar disorder can coexist with depression or contribute to its development.
Constant Low Mood: People with depression often experience constant feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair. They may feel as if nobody will understand and may feel incredibly alone and isolated.
Symptoms of depression
Appetite changes: Some people may have changes in appetite, either eating more or less
than usual. They may feel that eating more brings them comfort temporarily as if trying to fill a void. Or not eating very much because it makes them feel nauseous.
Trouble sleeping
Insomnia or excessive sleep can be common in depression. When people experience insomnia, their mind works on overdrive which prevents them from being able to shut down leaving them in a state of hyper-arousal. Whereas excessive sleep can be linked to feelings numbness and in a state of hypo-arousal.
Lack of Interest
A person may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may feel
unable to motivate themselves and can no longer imagine what enjoyment from past hobbies and interest felt like.
Withdrawal
Individuals may gradually withdraw from social engagements, preferring
solitude. It can feel ‘too much’ to engage and can feel incredibly overwhelming.
Seeking help…
If you notice some of these symptoms in either yourself or others and they persist for more than a couple of weeks, it is important to speak with your GP and ask for a Mental Health referral or contact a Counsellor who is trained in depression.
Talking about our feelings with a trusted friend or family member can also help as to feel
more connected and can help us to look at things from a new perspective.
Lifestyle changes coupled with the above help can have a positive impact on our mental
health and may help us to feel happier and more in control.
These early interventions can make a significant difference in managing depression
effectively.
Mental health crisis hotlines:
There are crisis lines available 24/7. If you feel or someone you know is
struggling or having suicidal thoughts.
NHS: Call 111 and select the Mental Health option.
National suicide prevention helpline on 0800 689 5652
Samaritans on 116 123
Remember that seeking professional support and understanding depression is an
essential step toward managing it effectively. You’re not alone, and there is hope for a
positive future.
About the Author
My name is Linda Thompson, I am a qualified and insured counsellor working in Gillingham and Medway, Kent. I support people with all kinds of issues, from bereavement to anxiety, divorce, trauma, abuse and coping with the general stressors of life. Please get in touch to book a session with me. Join me on Facebook.