Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Sad, or Trapped in Life?
Does it seem as if your life is not under your control? Are you frustrated by a lack of purpose or a feeling as though you are stuck and unable to move forward? Maybe you fear that you will never be happy, regardless of what you do or achieve. Or perhaps you feel worthless or hopeless, struggling to derive any joy out of even the greatest of your personal or professional accomplishments.
Do you suffer from aches and pains, digestive problems, changes in weight or sleeping patterns, or other physical discomforts, with no apparent medical cause? Have those around you noticed that you’re irritable or distant? Feelings of loneliness or isolation may make connecting with others in a meaningful way a struggle. It may be that you have trouble communicating your needs, leading to resentment and arguments between you and your loved ones. Do you wish you could let go of your sadness and feel safe, confident and connected, in a meaningful and fulfilling way?
Depression can affect all aspects of your life. It can make you dread having to face the responsibilities of the day, and it can make you feel overwhelmed by even the smallest of tasks. Getting out of bed in the morning may seem like an impossible struggle. Even activities or hobbies you once enjoyed might now hold no interest for you. You may feel that you have no time for yourself, but can’t seem to separate yourself from work or other responsibilities. Perhaps you’ve been self-medicating with drugs, alcohol, food, or other distractions in an attempt to cope with your pain. Although it might seem as if you’ve tried everything you can think of to elevate your mood and kickstart your motivation, you may still feel sad, stuck, or uncertain.
Depression Is Very Common in Our Culture
If you are struggling with depression, you are not alone. Depression is a real illness, and it is one of the most common health issues facing Americans today. Sixteen million adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2014, according to the World Health Organization, and almost 7 percent of all U.S. adults have suffered from depression.
While today’s high-stress, cutthroat job market is a major contributor to depression, the condition can arise from a wide variety of other factors as well. Unhealthy relationships with family members or partners are common causes, as are genetics, traumas, losses, major life transitions,. or other illnesses. Simply having a slight imbalance in the amount of certain chemicals in your brain can lead to major depression. Even something as harmless as the winter season can bring about distressing and severe changes in mood.
The good news is that depression doesn’t have to define your life. There is help and hope. With the guidance and support of an experienced and compassionate therapist, you can work through challenging thoughts and feelings and learn how to effectively manage symptoms and experience relief.
Take Control of Your Life with Depression Treatment
Therapy is a safe, proven way to ease the heavy feelings of depression and increase your energy, joy, and fulfillment. In confidential depression counseling sessions, you have the opportunity to discover more about yourself and identify the obstacles in the way of your happiness. We will work together to help you reframe the negative thoughts and feelings that often fuel depression. Throughout our sessions, you will also begin to better understand and communicate your needs.
Because everyone is unique and experiences depression differently, I will create a therapy strategy that best addresses your personal experience and goals. My unique approach to depression treatment is collaborative, open, and transparent. As we build a safe and trusting relationship—the cornerstone of effective treatment—we will begin to identify and address the root causes and triggers of your depression. Along with increasing self-awareness, you will have the opportunity to develop healthy, effective coping strategies and communication skills, empowering you to take back your life and be the person you truly want to be.
For over a decade, I’ve been helping people suffering from depression learn to cope with stress, mitigate symptoms, and live in a more empowered way. I know from both personal and professional experience that depression can be effectively managed and even overcome. With guidance, support, and a willingness to self-explore, it is possible to find meaning, purpose, and joy
You May Still Have Questions or Concerns about Depression Treatment
I’ve been depressed for so long. I’m not sure I know any other way to be.
Fear of change is normal, but don’t let your worries stop you from becoming the healthy and happy person you were meant to be. It’s far worse to live your life in fear than it is to embrace change and achieve real happiness. With therapy, you can gain the tools needed to get rid of what isn’t working in your life and build on what is.
I’m worried that I’ll discover something so serious, I won’t be able to recover.
It’s common to fear the unknown; however, when people discover and confront the source of their depression, the vast majority feel relieved and empowered. Learning new skills to cope with challenges allows you to better enjoy the good in life. Often the idea of therapy, and what you may discover about yourself, is far more severe in your mind than it is in reality. With therapy, you are given a safe space to explore and discover the real you.
I’m uncomfortable with anyone knowing that I’m in therapy.
First, seeking help is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it is a sign of strength and courage. Millions of people seek depression treatment every day and have used the experience to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. In therapy, you have the opportunity to take control of your life and feel better. In addition, all sessions are confidential. No one will know that you’re attending therapy unless you choose to share your experience with them.
Start on the Road to Happiness Today
The power to change how you feel is in your hands. I invite you to call me at (916) 822-2042 for a free 15-minute phone consultation. We can discuss your symptoms, and I can answer any questions you have about depression counseling, the benefits of therapy, or my practice. You don’t have to suffer alone. The time to take a chance at living a better life is now.