THERAPY FOR DEPRESSION AND DISTRESS

Serving Kitchener-Waterloo, Milton, Oakville, London, and the surrounding areas, Anchoridge Counselling understands the importance when individuals are dealing with depression and distress.

To state the obvious, depression is not fun and can be very difficult to navigate without the proper support. It affects how someone feels, thinks, and behaves. For some people, it can feel as though they are living in a black hole or are stuck in a box that they cannot get out of. It can feel like you're not a part of the real world. For others, it feels lifeless, numb, or empty, and not seeing a future. However you feel the symptoms of depression, it can be difficult and cause disruptions to your everyday life.

What Causes Depression?

two individuals at a beach representing the waves of emotions one feels when going to therapy for depression in Waterloo, Milton, Oakville and London Ontario

Depression can be caused by several different factors, and its presentation may differ from person to person. Just like many other mental health conditions, the expression of depression may not be the same in everyone and the intensity can vary. Sometimes it is instantly apparent what the cause is, but other times there isn't an obvious reason why you feel so down. It could be that you've lost someone or something, experiencing a distressing life event or circumstances, substance use, physical illness, or stemming from feelings of disappointment, anger, or frustration.

Depression can vary from mild to very severe and can be experienced in different ways that include persistent low mood and thoughts, loss of interest or motivation, isolation from friends and family, and a loss of self-worth. It can also have an impact on your sleeping or eating habits. Depression can feel so overwhelming it can lead to constant feelings of anxiousness, self-harm, or thoughts of suicide. Depression can also come in waves of “depressive episodes,” this means that you can also experience cycles of high levels of depressive symptoms or low levels of symptoms.

It is important to remember that feelings of helplessness and hopelessness are symptoms of depression - not the reality of your situation. At Anchoridge Counselling, we recognize that you cannot simply say "cheer up" or "snap out of it." Our team of therapists will evaluate each person individually to determine what type of treatment is best. Treatment is customized to fit the specific needs of each person.

We use approaches such as these during therapy for depression:

waves splashing on a beach representing the waves of emotions one feels when going to therapy for depression in Waterloo, Milton, Oakville and London Ontario

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Solution Focused Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Talk Therapy

...to help individuals learn how to understand and manage their depression in order to minimize their efforts in their daily life, health, and relationships. If others around you say things like “you have nothing to be sad about” remember that this is not true. Your feelings are valid regardless of the situation, and everyone’s situation is different. The good news is no matter how hopeless you feel, you can get better! You are worthy of help, no matter how trivial you may perceive your problems to be. There is no shame in reaching out - you are far from alone and many individuals are working towards their ideal outcome. Let us help you break through the barriers created by depression.

At Anchoridge Counselling we understand that the waves of depression can come crashing over you at any time and make you feel like you are drowning at sea. Let us be your anchor during these tumultuous times. Our skilled team of counsellors are here to offer guidance and support as you navigate these feelings and learn to effectively cope. Reaching out can be the hardest part of the process, but it is so important to understand you are not alone! If you are ready to reach out for help, you can fill out our convenient online contact form to book your free 15-minute consultation or you can get to know more about our Counselling Teams here: London, Oakville, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Milton. Find your anchor in the storm and begin your journey to healing!