Depression - Person Centred Therapist Approach

Depression is experienced currently by approximately one in five people in the UK and Person Centred Therapy offers a clear approach to dealing with Depression.

People of all ages, backgrounds, lifestyles, and nationalities may at some point in their lives suffer from depression.

So What Is Depression?

Depression is a different experience for each of us as we are all individual in our way of being . Some people find it useful to view their depression in terms of different types of depression. The following are some of the various types of depression: -

Mild depression People experiencing mild depression may notice some of the following changes : - Disturbed sleep, lack of energy and concentration, feeling less confident and vulnerable. Moderate depression

Noticeable disturbed sleep patterns, lack of energy, low self esteem, feeling anxious., uninterested in social life. Reduced sex drive, loss of interest in work and feeling guilty. May withdraw from family and friends and struggle in social situations.

Severe Depression

In addition to experiencing some or all of the feelings with moderate depression, with severe depression, the person may over/under eat, have an inability to concentrate, speech may be delayed or sentences mixed up. If the person is in a manic state, their speech may be uninterrupted or move increasingly from different topics. Feeling sad, anxious, bored or hopeless. Feelings of guilt, Loss of interest in life or thinking they are better off dead. Suicidal thoughts.

Physical: Tension pain in the neck, pains in chest/head/stomach, migraine, constipation., diarrhoea and IBS.

In addition to the above there is also manic depression which is mainly nowadays referred to as bi-polar disorder. As the word ‘bi’ suggests having two forms, the person may experience severe contrasting feelings. There may be a combination of the feelings associated with depression, but also the presence of extreme highs “manic” for example increased speech, inflated belief in oneself and ones capabilities, risk taking, infidelity.

Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression usually occurs between 4-6 weeks after birth. Approximately 1 in 10 mothers are believed to have postnatal depression. New fathers may also experience postnatal depression. Some feelings associated with postnatal depression may include: -

• Low mood
• Tiredness
• Lack of energy
• Hopelessness
• Anxiety
• Difficult to cope
• Loneliness

What Causes Depression ?

There is no single cause for depression. However, some factors such as hormonal inbalance, genetic and early traumatic experiences may attribute to depression. Other possible causes of depression maybe bereavement, divorce, financial hardship, substance abuse and a traumatic occurrence.

How can I help with your depression?

Depression can feel like an overwhelming and frightening experience. As a Person Centred Therapist, I will be working alongside you, supporting you and providing a nurturing environment which will allow you to fully access your own powerful resources.

Some personal testimonials from clients experiences with me: -

Sarah: “I just wanted to curl up and die. I would lay in the foetal position and rock myself from side to side, wanting the world, myself and my depression to vanish. You walked with me in my darkest moments of my depression and gave me hope and be a part of the world once again”.

Alex: “The isolation and loneliness, I am the MD of a successful company in the city, how could I share my depression with anyone? I was able to share my depression with you and you helped me move on.”

Tom: “I left all my family and friends behind in my homeland. Moving to the UK left me feeling alienated and alone, I felt I was drowning and with no clear route out of my depression. You listened and understood my drowning and allowed me to free myself from my depression.”

Claire: “What’s the point in continuing, I am a burden on my partner. The kids would be better off without me. I am so useless. I was able to share my painful and raw experiences with you and I could share my suicidal thoughts with you. I felt your compassionate and non-judging support. Thank you for being there through my depression.”