Have you been feeling tired, numb, irritable, losing interest in things, or having difficulty concentrating? Not everyone is aware that these can be symptoms of depression. Depression is more than just feeling down or sad, it is a mood disorder that is one of the most common mental illnesses. Depression impacts about 1 in 8 Canadians over the course of their lifetimes (with about 5% of people reporting symptoms of depression at any given time).
Symptoms of depression can include:
- Mood changes such as low mood, feeling empty or numb, or increased irritability
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that used to be enjoyable
- Feeling tired or fatigued, lack of motivation or energy
- Reduction in activity levels and/or social isolation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Eating or sleeping more or less than usual
- Self-critical thoughts, often accompanied by feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you have been experiencing depression, it is important to reach out for support and treatment. Options for treatment and support include a visit to a family doctor, psychological counselling, medication, reducing stress, seeking support and connection from family and friends, as well as healthy lifestyle changes. It is very important to find a combination of treatment and supports that works for you. The experienced psychologists at Willow Psychology can help you to navigate your options and we can provide psychological counselling and therapy for depression that is tailored to your needs.
For more information about depression: