Depression is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch. It's a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people in the UK and worldwide. If you find yourself thinking things like ‘am I depressed?’ and ‘what exactly is depression?’, it may be time to reach out to a professional therapist to help understand and manage signs of depression.
If you’re in Leicester or any of the surrounding areas (Oadby, Wigston, Blaby, Countesthorpe, Lutterworth, Broughton Astley or Market Harborough), Resilient Mind Therapies offers non-judgmental, supportive therapy sessions face-to-face to help with depression. We also see patients from all over the UK via online sessions. If you’re looking for a qualified depression therapist, reach out to us today for support and guidance.
Signs of Depression
Depression affects not just your mind, but your body and behaviour too. The signs of depression can vary and range from mind to severe. While many of these signs are part of life’s everyday ups and downs, the more symptoms you have, the stronger they are, and the longer they’ve lasted—the more likely it is that you’re dealing with depression. Here are common symptoms to look out for:
Emotional Signs of Depression:
• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Irritability
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Physical Signs of Depression:
• Fatigue and decreased energy
• Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite - weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause
Behavioural Signs of Depression:
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Moving or talking more slowly
• Restlessness or having trouble sitting still
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Remember, experiencing some of these symptoms doesn't automatically mean you have depression. However, if you're experiencing several of these symptoms for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, it might be time to seek professional help. A therapist will be able to help you understand and manage these symptoms.
Depression in the UK: You're Not Alone
According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), depression affects approximately 5% of the adult population in the UK at any given time.
The Mental Health Foundation reports that 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year, with depression being one of the most common issues.
At Resilient Mind Therapies, we understand the impact that depression can have on your life. Through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), we work collaboratively to challenge negative thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and help you rediscover a sense of purpose and joy in your life.
It's important to remember that depression is treatable, and recovery is possible. It’s difficult to know how to help someone with depression, but CBT has been shown to be particularly effective in treating depression, helping individuals identify and change thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to their depression.
Don't let depression prevent you from living the life you deserve. Professional help can make a significant difference in your journey to recovery. Reach out to Resilient Therapies for non-judgemental, supportive face-to-face sessions in Leicester or online, and take that first step into the mental wellness that you deserve.
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