Depression Counseling
Depression, sometimes referred to as the dark night of the soul or the dark angel is an important stepping stone on your journey to healing and wellness. It can be a process that leads to rebirth and a new way of being in the world. Phone counseling for mild to moderate depression can help you find your way through the overwhelming feelings and symptoms that undermine your happiness. It is important to know that even though you may be feeling hopeless, depression is healable.
Over 20 million people suffer from depression. Below I have listed a number of the symptoms of depression. If you find that more than five of these apply to you phone counseling may be able to help you. Research shows that psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy are effective in treating depression and anxiety.
Symptoms of Depression
• Feelings of sadness and/or irritability
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in weight or appetite
• Changes in sleeping pattern
• Feeling guilty, hopeless, or worthless
• Inability to concentrate, remember things or make decisions
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Restlessness or decreased activity
• Thoughts of suicide or death.
Other symptoms which may indicate a manic phase:
• Increased energy and decreased need for sleep
• Inappropriate excitement or irritability
• Increased talking or moving
• Promiscuous sexual behavior
• Disconnected and racing thoughts
• Impulsive behavior and poor judgment.
Physical symptoms of depression:
• Recurring or chronic physical ailments
• Chronic pain
• Chronic fatigue
• Fibromyalgia
• High blood pressure
• Muscular tension
• Obesity
• Eating disorders
• Substance use/abuse
• Headaches
• General aches and pains
• Digestive problems
• Irritable bowel
• Sexual problems
• Anxiety attacks
Phone counseling and psychotherapy can help you understand depression and anxiety by addressing the effects from the perspective of body, mind and spirit.
Key Elements of Depression
• The experience of loss
• The inhibition of anger and aggression
• Inhibition of action or assertiveness
• Low self-esteem
Biochemical Connection
• Deficiencies in serotonin may cause disruptions in sleep patterns, irritability or anxiety.
• Decreased amounts of norepinephrine may contribute to fatigue or depressed moods.
• Heightened levels of cortisol intensify reactions to stress, anger and fear.
Addictions can be a symptom of depression. Addictions are used as a coping mechanism to not feel whatever is going on, whether it be stuffing emotions with a cigarette or trying to nurture yourself with food or hiding in the denial associated with overspending, or the fear of abandonment in relationship addiction. Substance abuse can be a major cause of depression.
What Helps? Nurture the Body, Mind and Spirit with Phone Counseling
• Talk therapy and specifically cognitive behavioral therapy
• Reframing negative thinking
• Diet
• Exercise
• Activities with friends
• Becoming involved in your community
• Practice Gratitude
• Boundaries, limits and routines
• Creativity
• Yoga, meditation, prayer, dance, music – laughter!
I am happy to participate in bringing light into the dark areas that keep you from living life to it’s fullest. Seeking therapy is a courageous step and requires a personal commitment to your growth and future. I look forward to supporting you on this journey.
If you are looking for depression counseling give me a
call 802-496-7135 or email me.
