Depression

What are the signs of high functioning depression? Think of it this way: we all have times when we feel that we are just going through the motions in life. You wake up, go to work, come home, make dinner, etc. Rinse and repeat. But what if  "rinse and repeat" are all you've really felt for a long time? Depression steals the extra spark that reminds you of how good it feels to be alive. That ongoing sense of joylessness, combined with some significant lows, may be worrisome. Moreover, it could be a sign of high functioning depression. It’s important then, [...]

Do you sense it may be time to consider depression treatment? You're not alone if you do. Depression can affect anyone of any age, gender, or demographic. Despite depression being a common mental illness, many feel as though they need to hide it from others. If you're suffering from depression, you may feel alone in your battle. Furthermore, you may feel like you will have to suffer in silence for the rest of your life. In reality, you don't have to suffer alone, and you don't have to suffer for the rest of your life. Many treatment options are available for [...]

It can be hard to tell the difference between depression or bipolar disorder. Both are serious mental health conditions that have an effect on your quality of life. Unfortunately, many people spend years suffering from the symptoms of depression or bipolar disorder without receiving the help that they need. However, you may have noticed that something is wrong lately. Is there a difference in how you live your life now? Does the way you function or feel about yourself seem to have shifted significantly, but you can’t tell if what you are experiencing is depression, bipolar disorder, or something else entirely? [...]

Men and depression; these subjects are linked more and more. But in a good way! That is to say that more men are getting better at admitting their feelings of depression and persistent low moods. Slowly but surely, the stigma about  men not speaking of such things is fading. Men from all walks of life are finally sharing their struggles. Unfortunately, the conversation sometimes starts to dry up when it's time to talk about actual treatment. At that point, denial and avoidance can enter back in. Thus, we often see that, despite their initial mental health disclosure, the pervasive sense of [...]

If you've come to think that you’re depressed, the reality is that you've most likely been stuck in depression much longer than you realize. People who are diagnosed with depression must show symptoms of the condition for at least two consecutive weeks. Most, however, have shown intermittent signs for years. Sadly, though, many are reluctant to get professional help despite suspecting they have a problem. Do you fall into this category? If so, please understand that you really do need a therapist to help with your depression. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Why? It’s because depression is a sign that [...]

If you suffer from or have ever suffered from depression, you know first-hand just how difficult it can make daily living. Depression is a mental illness, but it impacts nearly every aspect of your life—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Symptoms of depression include: Fatigue and tiredness Apathy Loss of interest in activities, hobbies, or socializing Change in appetite—eating too much or too little Feelings of sadness, despair, or hopelessness Irritability Mood swings Withdrawal from friends, family, and other loved ones If depression symptoms are persistent or long-term, it can be classified as major depression. And when it is intense enough, everyday tasks [...]

  There are signs of depression you shouldn't ignore Depression symptoms aren’t always obvious, especially if you are already depressed. You might not realize that you are struggling, let alone think to ask if are you depressed or not. Life feels so hard, and you just don’t care. Yet, it doesn’t have to be this way. Your life can be richer and more rewarding. However, it starts by recognizing that something’s wrong. Depression isn’t impossible to solve at all, and it's well worth the effort to resolve if it means having a life you deserve. Here then are signs of depression you shouldn’t [...]

Depression can feel like such a lonely struggle. Not everyone has struggled with depression. Sometimes, we have to help our loved ones with understanding depression symptoms This is true even if you are surrounded by people who care deeply about you. It’s because your family and friends may fail in understanding your depression symptoms and the effects that they can have. That's not necessarily your loved ones’ fault. Rather, they just don’t have the perspective you do when it comes to depression. They might see you and think, “He/She is perfectly fine! What’s the problem?” If you want to help loved [...]

"I need alternative depression therapy. I couldn't find my happiness, peace of mind or joy at the bottom of my pill bottle!". Sound familiar?  Said as a wisecrack, this a quote that has stuck with me for a few years now. One of my former depression therapy clients, Susanna (not her real name) said it to me in our first phone call. As we talked more, she went on to share details with me that showed me that her use of these drugs had not been without steep cost to her. Susanna told me about how she had suffered with a [...]

When you’re battling severe depression, it can be a long road towards recovering. You feel so alone and that nobody can possibly understand what you’re going through. It's like walking down a long, dark road by yourself. And the obstacles that you must face on this journey can be overwhelming. It’s not just the depression. There’s also shame and guilt, and even substance abuse issues, as you try to numb the pain caused by your severe depression through drugs or alcohol. Plus, the relationships you once treasured may now lie in ruins. Is there any hope at all? Is it possible [...]