What are the symptoms of depression?

As well as low mood, depression symptoms can include feeling very tearful, irritable or angry, losing interest in things you previously enjoyed or feeling tired and having less energy. You may also lose concentration, self-confidence, appetite and motivation. Often, people who have been living with depression feel like they are isolated but at the same time they want to hide away from others. It can be common for people with depression to have symptoms of anxiety too.

What are the causes of depression?

There is no one single cause of depression. It can be triggered by a change in your life, such as divorce, losing a job, or having a baby. Bereavement is a common trigger. Sometimes people who put their own needs last and give too much to others can be particularly susceptible to depression. But there isn’t always an obvious reason.

How can counselling help?

As a counsellor, I will listen to you without judging you. I will help you explore your feelings, acknowledge them and come to an acceptance of them. We will then work together to find new ways of moving forward and exploring long term goals rather than short term-fixes. 

My goal is always to encourage and then empower a client to move forward in their life with a sense of hopefulness.