Depression

Hiding in my room, safe within my womb,
I touch no one and no one touches me.
I am a rock,
I am an island.
And a rock feels no pain;
And an island never cries.

Paul Simon
From the song I Am a Rock

Familiar Feelings of Depression

Depression hurts.  Depression makes it hard to think.  Depression removes most or all ability to feel joy.  It's for real.

It wasn't too long ago that medication was held up as the incredible aid that would make the difference for those struggling with depression.  What research is finding out is that medication is effective for those with bipolar disorder and those with the most severe forms of depression.  For those with mild to moderate depression, there is a growing body of evidence appearing that suggests counselling is even more effective than medication in improving a person's mood.

For some depression can show itself more in physical ways--achiness, upset stomach, fatigue.  Others will experience their depression in an agitated way--by being fairly quick to be angry having a "short fuse", and be easily irritated by the circumstances.  Still others will find themselves  lethargic, finding it difficult to get out of bed, having low motivation.  For many, there is a part of them that is anxious, even as they are also depressed.

"Good morning, Eeyore," said Pooh.
"Good morning, Pooh Bear," said Eeyore gloomily. "If it is a good morning, which I doubt," said he.
"Why, what's the matter?"
"Nothing, Pooh Bear, nothing. We can't all, and some of us don't. That's all there is to it."
"Can't all what?" said Pooh, rubbing his nose.
"Gaiety. Song-and-dance. Here we go round the mulberry bush."

A. A. Milne
From book Winnie the Pooh

Conexus Counselling works with each client in a way that makes sense for that client.  Clients have varying ideas about using medication, herbal remedies etc.  We promote the use of "natural antidepressants" like exercise, good sleep hygiene, sunshine, and connecting with others--recognizing that using these strategies often feels very difficult because of the depression. Your therapist would also work with you to look at the internal and external factors which create the dynamics for depression, and begin to develop strategies to address these issues.

Working on one's depression is, by the very nature of depression, an arduous process.  However, it can also be very rewarding and effective.

When someone you love is struggling with depression, it can be hard to watch. Hard to know what to do. Sometimes, as the family member of someone struggling with depression it can be helpful to come in for sessions to know how best to support the one you love as they journey their way back to health.

For further information, to ask questions, or to book an appointment with one of our counsellors, please contact us via email, or call our office at 275-1045