Depression
Depression involves difficulties with mood, unhealthy thinking patterns, and physical symptoms like insomnia or increased appetite. In terms of mood, some people report feeling sad or irritable much more than usual. Others report feeling empty or numb. Things that used to bring a sense of satisfaction and pleasure don’t produce the same positive feelings, and it can be hard to be motivated for daily activities like school or work because these activities don’t seem to have any point. It is not uncommon for people to think it would be easier if they weren’t alive, that they are a burden to others, and that others would be better off without them. Many people have trouble concentrating or making decisions that used to come easily to them. They may feel excessively guilty or struggle with low self-esteem. People can also experience significant shifts in their sleep (e.g., insomnia or hypersomnia) and eating habits (e.g., losing or gaining weight.)
Treatment for Depression
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a research-based method for treating depression. Part of treatment involves helping people cope with the low motivation common in depression and reconnect with activities that once brought a sense of pleasure or accomplishment. Treatment also involves helping people address thoughts that worsen depression. Sometimes this requires challenging unhealthy thinking patterns. Other times this involves learning strategies to gain greater emotional distance from thoughts that worsen depression. For some, treating depression requires finding ways to integrate personal values more deeply into daily life. Values help provide a sense of direction and keep people from feeling rudderless when hardships arise. When depression is being worsened by upsetting life circumstances, these circumstances can be explored in therapy. Therapy offers a space to work towards greater peace, even if the circumstances can't be changed.
