“That’s the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything, as long as she sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious, and it compounds daily, that it’s impossible to ever see the end.”
~ Elizabeth Wurtzel, Prozac Nation
What is Depression?
I dedicate myself to providing compassionate support and effective therapy to individuals battling the weight of depression. Whether you’re experiencing bouts of sadness and hopelessness or you are living with a more severe form, there is hope for a brighter, more joyful future.
Depression is a complex mental health condition that can affect every aspect of a person’s life. It goes beyond occasional sadness. Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness characterize depression. It also includes a loss of interest in activities that once brought joy.
Start with a medical check up: Hormones
In addition to “stuffed” emotions, trauma, and negative thoughts, depression can also occur when hormones are out of balance, there is a low amount of exposure to the sun, or from an unhealthy diet or low amounts of exercise. I have personally experienced depression because my vitamin D levels were low and because my thyroid levels were low.
If hormones are not balanced, mental health therapy or anti-depressant medication will not work. All clients with depression should have their hormones (including D which is actually a hormone) tested by their medical doctor prior to starting counseling. Find a doctor who will test your hormones. Note: Vitamin D levels can be low even if you do get enough sunlight.
Depression can manifest in various ways, including:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): A severe form of depression characterized by persistent low mood, loss of energy, and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): A milder, but more chronic form of depression, often lasting for years and impacting daily functioning.
- Bipolar Disorder: A mood disorder characterized by periods of depression alternating with manic or hypomanic episodes.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression that occurs seasonally, often during the winter months when there is less natural sunlight. This is an indicator of low vitamin D.
- Postpartum Depression: A form of depression that affects new mothers, typically within the first year after childbirth.
How Can I Help You Manage Depression?
My mission is to provide you with effective therapy and support, helping you find hope and happiness in your life once more. Here’s how I can assist you:
- Specialized Therapy: I offer evidence-based therapy utilizing somatic therapy, tailored to your unique needs. I will help you explore your current life situations as well as your past experiences. Together, we will explore the root causes of your depression and develop strategies to manage it.
- Understanding Depression: Gain a deeper understanding of your feelings, your triggers, and how your feelings affect your thoughts, emotions, and behavior.
- Coping Strategies: Learn practical techniques and coping skills to manage depressive symptoms, including cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness, and goal setting.
- Medication Management: If medication is appropriate, I can collaborate with a psychiatrist to explore medication options alongside therapy.
- Support and Validation: You will find a safe and nonjudgmental space here. Your experiences are validated, and you are supported every step of the way.
For those experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Hotline at 988. For those who are not suicidal, you can still call the National Suicide Hotline or you can contact your local Warm Line. In Alabama, the Warm Line is Wings Across Alabama 1-844-999-4647. In Florida, The Warm Line is 1-800-945-1355. If you are in a different state, the national directory can be found at: https://warmline.org.
Contact and Appointment Information: If you are ready to embark on your journey towards managing your feelings and rediscovering joy, please reach out to schedule an appointment. Your path to embracing hope and happiness begins here.
My email address is: diana@welcomelifecounseling.com.
Remember, depression is treatable, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Together, we can work towards a future where you can experience the fullness of life, find meaning and fulfillment, and rekindle your inner light.