Depression

 According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Depression may include the following symptoms:

Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings

Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

Irritability,restlessness

Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex

Fatigue and decreased energy

Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions

Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping

Overeating, or appetite loss

Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment.

 The World Health Organization estimates that over 350 million people suffer from depression. The American Psychological Association found that 25% of all patients visiting primary doctors suffered from depression. 

​Every 30 seconds someone commits suicide. For every one completed suicide, 20 other people have attempted suicide.  

 It was once thought that the innocense of childhood shielded children from depression. We now realize that children can and often do suffer from depression.

Depressed children may isolate themselves and be tearful. However, many depressed children become irritable, argumentative, non-compliant, and have anger outbursts. As a result, parents often do not consider depression because depressed children are more likely to appear angry rather than depressed. 

 Counseling, including principles and techniques of

Cognitive Behavior Therapy, as well as, other evidenced based practices  have been found to be very effective in treating depression.

Couples or Family Therapy may be instrumental in addressing relationship issues which may be contributing to depression. 

​With the use of Feedback Informed Treatment, both the client and the counselor can track what changes are proving most beneficial for the client.