We all experience difficult challenges in our lives, which can trigger depression-like symptoms. In times of high stress or grief, it’s normal to feel frustrated, overwhelmed or really sad. Some people bounce back from these setbacks, while others find it more difficult. If feelings of extreme sadness and a sense of hopelessness persist for more than a couple of weeks, you may be experiencing clinical depression.

The causes of adult depression are many and vary greatly. Major life transitions, trauma, hormones, illnesses or genetics can all contribute to depression. Depression varies among individuals and can be experienced differently by many. Some experience an overwhelming sense of the “blues,” chronic irritability and moodiness, or a deep sense of hopelessness that makes it impossible to get out of bed or leave the house. But all experience one thing in common, an almost indescribable sense of emotional pain.

The good news, however, is that regardless of the severity of your symptoms, there are many treatment approaches that can help mitigate these depression symptoms, so that you can feel better and get your life back on track.

Talking with a trained mental health professional, who is experienced and truly understands depression, can provide you with much relief. When in the throes of depression, many individuals develop tunnel vision and feel trapped. The counselors at Waterford Counseling and Psychological Services can help you gain fresh perspectives and provide you with behavioral strategies that can help you not only cope with the distressing symptoms of depression, but also help you improve your life overall. In your counseling sessions, you will learn to get at the root causes of your depression, learn ways to take better care of yourself, and learn how to live your life in more constructive and empowering ways.

Your therapist can give you helpful feedback in a safe and supportive environment as you explore what’s blocking your ability to feel sustained happiness. You will learn to identify self-limiting thoughts and behaviors that you may not even know you have, and learn healthier ways to cope with stress and difficult emotions. You will also learn concrete, practical ways to comfort and nurture yourself and set meaningful and attainable goals. Your therapist will help you identify your strengths and aspects of your life that are positive. You will discover resources, reconnect with your inner strength and regain a sense of purpose and meaning in your life.

Even though you may be feeling hopeless right now, it is possible to broaden your narrow focus and see that you can have a positive future. You can feel better about yourself and your life situation. With help, you can begin to heal, find more joy and feel like yourself again. It’s even possible to feel better than you did before. Therapy can help you get to know yourself better, develop a more concrete understanding of your needs, emotions and capabilities, and feel more empowered to take better care of yourself.

Medication is not always recommended or needed for treating depression. In fact, many people with mild to moderate depression have found counseling and other lifestyle changes to be very effective for overcoming depression.

Your therapist at Waterford Counseling and Psychological Services will work with you in deciding what the best treatment approach is for you. Over time if counseling seems like it is taking too long for you to feel better, or appears to be ineffective, your counselor may suggest that you meet with a Medical Doctor to determine if medication is an option for your depression treatment. If medication is recommended, it is entirely up to you to decide whether to try it or not. It’s our role to provide you with support, answer any questions you may have, and to carefully monitor progress and potential side effects should you chose medication. It’s also important to note that medication can oftentimes be a temporary solution to help mitigate depression symptoms so you can begin to feel better and actively engage in counseling and other important aspects of your life. Many people report experiencing best results with a combination of medication and counseling to address depression.

Therapy is an investment in yourself and in your family. By investing in yourself now, you are not only creating the opportunity to feel better sooner, but depression treatment can also help you gain and maintain a more positive perspective on your life, which can lead to sustainable, long-term results. Investing in your mental health will pay huge emotional and relationship dividends. You will feel better, be more productive at home and work, and you will experience more satisfaction in your relationships. If you believe you might be depressed, don’t hesitate a second longer. Call Waterford Counseling and Psychological Services today at 630-898-5322, and we will help you find a good-fit therapist who will assist you in taking the first steps to feeling better again and overcoming depression.