I’ve had a lot of experience with depression – we travelled a long road together, so I understand how hopeless life can seem.
Back then, I tried to be positive, but the future looked bleak. I wasn’t able to cope with most things. Even getting the kids to the bus stop was an effort. I doubted my ability in everything. It was a culmination of my past and a negative personality type that made things so difficult.
I prayed, used antidepressants, tried to talk about it to friends – but nothing seemed to shift this deep sadness and disappointment.
Fortunately my doctor saw the symptoms and referred me to a counsellor. I can honestly say that was the start of moving from despair to hope.
I believe God led me to a counsellor who really helped me. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping others.
Everyone with depression has a valid story to tell. But take it from me; the light can begin to shine in when you to tell your story to someone who will listen and who knows how to help you.
Let’s look at depression:
- Commonly, depression develops when difficulties keep happening and there’s no relief.
- Currently, one in four females and one in six males suffer from depression in Australia (1). Depression has been predicted to be one of the world’s largest health problems by 2020 (2). If there is anything positive from these stats – it’s that we are not alone!
- It affects our thinking, feelings and behaviour – we think negatively, we feel terrible, we complain more often, and people avoid us because they can’t cope (3).
So what should I do when I’m suffering from depression?
With depression, our self-image is affected. We struggle to make sense of what has happened and to cope. Those of us who are prone to depression often blame ourselves and continually replay events in our mind. This can explain why depression is exhausting!
There is no o-n-e cure for depression, but here are some things that may help you or someone you know:
- Accept it as a reality – it’s the first step to change.
- Get plenty of rest. Sleep is vital. Lie on the couch; go to bed early.
- Eat healthy. Food can impact mood significantly – and live foods, seeds, grains and greens are all important for helping you feel better on the inside. (OK – and just a little chocolate!) Try to avoid stimulants like coffee, caffeinated drinks and depressants like alcohol.
- Talk often. Talking is so helpful and perhaps vital. Choose someone you trust. This is where a counsellor can really help.
- Think about the cause. This can be hard and is where a counsellor can help you define the cause of your depression and begin understanding it.
If there are some big issues in your life needing attention, then perhaps it’s time to tackle them.
And here’s another tip: Don’t worry about what others might think about you seeing a therapist, counsellor or “shrink”. It could be the investment that saves your life and reaps great rewards. Furthermore, your friends are likely to be relieved! Life can be difficult at times (as you know) – but you have to take the first step. There really is hope at hand. Don’t put it off any longer.
You can reach out to me via this website form, by email or you can call me if you want to discuss setting up a counselling session.
References:
2. The Global Burden of Disease: A Comprehensive Assessment of Mortality and Disability, Injuries, and Risk Factors in 1990 and Projected to 2020, World Bank, Harvard School of Public Health, Geneva, 1996.
3. Joiner, T. E. (1994). Contagious depression: Existence, specifically to depressed symptoms, and the role of reassurance seeking. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 67, 287-296.
