‘Major depressive disorder’ (MDD), also known as ‘recurrent depressive disorder’, ‘clinical depression’, ‘major depression’, ‘unipolar depression’ or ‘unipolar disorder’, is characterized by an all – encompassing low mood, low self esteem and loss of interest or pleasure in activities the individual normally enjoys. It can be a disabling condition, which adversely affects a person’s family, work or school life, sleeping and eating habits and general health.
The term ‘depression’ can be ambiguous, used either in describing the above state of mind or other low mood states that are not considered clinically significant. Studies have revealed that at least 1 in 5 people suffer from depression at some time in their lives*. That equates to literally hundreds of millions of people around the world.
Depression can also be part of a cycle that is connected to physical pain, suffering and stress. Someone feeling depressed can stress about the fact that they feel depressed and think they can not get out of it. This can lead to suffering, which can even manifest into physical pain. The physical pain then can lead into depression – and so the cycle continues.
Symptoms of Depression:
– Extremely low mood
– Lethargy
– Inability to experience pleasure in activities that were formerly enjoyed.
– Overwhelming feeling of hopelessness, helplessness or worthlessness
– Extremely low self esteem and confidence
– Poor concentration and memory
– Withdrawal from social situations and activities
– Significant decrease or increase in appetite, often resulting in very noticeable weight loss or weight gain
– Insomnia (affects around 80% of depressed people)
– Hypersomnia or oversleeping (affects around 15% of depressed people)
– Fatigue
– Constant physical ailments such as headaches, back pain or digestive problems
HOW WE WILL HELP YOU WITH DEPRESSION
We can help you uncover the cause or significant experience that started your depression. We will assist you with gaining insight about your depression and replace it with more positive and life affirming behaviors in a gentle, thorough and effective way.