Living with Depression
Depression can feel like falling into a state of darkness and despair. You feel stuck, completely alone, and that life is meaningless. It's a struggle to find the motivation to get up in the morning. Everything feels so exhausting to you - even things that are supposed to be enjoyable. Suicidal thoughts come up because you just want the pain to go away or think that people would be better off without you. However dark it may seem, you are worthy and needed. You are not alone and help is available​​​​
Depression can look like:
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Feeling empty and numb
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Not finding enjoyment in interests and activities
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Easily fatigued
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Weight changes
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Not sleeping enough or sleeping too much
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Difficulty concentrating or focusing
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Irritability
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Negative feelings about yourself and the world
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Suicidal thoughts
Treating Depression
Depression is not just sadness. Sadness and other unpleasant emotions are built to pass through the mind and body, while depression lingers for weeks, months, or more. Without treatment, depression can get worse and become debilitating. It can affect your ability to show up for school, work, or your relationships.
Depression therapy at Gentle Guardians Counseling involves taking a closer look at the function of depression to better understand the "why". Depression may be situational, related to a trauma event, genetic, chemical, and/or environmental. Your therapist will also support you in exploring your awareness of your thoughts and feelings in the present moment to support managing the difficulties of depression. Practicing strategies of being gentle and patient with yourself can ease your suffering. Reviewing and practicing coping techniques to nurture the mind and body is crucial to addressing depression.
Hope begins here. Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are ready and dedicated to support you.