Depression can feel like being stuck in a pit. When you try to climb out, you just keep slipping back down. Or maybe you don’t even want to climb out. Depression can make you to lose the desire to do anything. Everything seems hopeless, so what’s the point of trying? The future looks bleak and life feels like such a struggle. It’s impossible to concentrate on anything.

We all feel down sometimes, but when we start to feel down more often than we feel good, this can be a sign of depression. Does making it through the day feel like too much effort? Do you just want to hide away and shut out everyone? There is help. Depression is very treatable and one of the most common reasons that people seek therapy.

What are Signs that I Need Therapy for Depression?

Sometimes it can be hard to recognize when we’re depressed. Some people experience it physically, such as feeling slowed down, low energy, and fatigued. Some people experience it in what they do (or don’t do) such as not keeping up on hygiene, not leaving the house, or not doing the things they used to enjoy. You may convince yourself that you’re just tired or just having an “off” day. However, having depression is more than just having a bad day or week. If ignored, it can turn into a downward spiral, where you just continue to feel worse. You may benefit from therapy if you answer “yes” to any of the following questions:

• Do you feel low energy or that you lack motivation?

• Do you have trouble concentrating?

• Do you feel sad, down, or irritable?

• Do you cry more than usual?

• Do you feel guilty, worthless, or hopeless?

• Do you feel numb or empty?

• Do you have trouble getting out of bed in the morning?

• Do you have less interest in the activities that you used to enjoy?

• Do you spend more time alone or at home?

• Do you have thoughts of not wanting to live?

• Do you sleep a lot more or a lot less than you used to?

• Do you eat a lot more or a lot less than you used to?

If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone and may benefit from therapy. The sooner you get help, the sooner you’ll feel better.

How is Depression Treated?

Therapy is very effective for treating depression. At Old Town Psychology, we use cognitive behavioral therapy to help you:

• Change how you think. We will help you have fewer negative thoughts.

• Change what you do. We will help you engage in activities that you enjoy.

• Change how you feel. We will help you feel better, lighter, and more energized.

 By the end of our work together, you will feel more hopeful and more capable of handling whatever challenges you face.

1. https://news.gallup.com/poll/505745/depression-rates-reach-new-highs.aspx