Depression
Depression is more than simply feeling unhappy or fed up for a few days. Most people go through periods of feeling down, but when one is depressed they feel persistently sad for weeks or months, rather than just a few days. It affects people in different ways and can cause a wide variety of symptoms.
A few of the symptoms of depression are:
- Feeling sad, hopeless or empty
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Loss of energy or increased fatigue
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Counselling can help in managing depression by:
- Goal setting : Set and achieve goals.
- Explore thoughts : Identify and challenge negative thinking.
- Structure routine : Manage daily chores and restoring a certain level of functioning.
- Ventilation : Being able to share the negative thoughts in a safe and non-judgemental environment gives a sense of relief.
- Building a support system : Reconnecting with family and friends.