Anyone can suffer from depression – it is a very common experience and most people recover with help
and support.

Depression is the most complicated of all emotions and yet the most common. It is a constant feeling
of gloom or sadness and can lead to physical illness or suicidal thoughts if not treated.

Causes of Depression vary from money issues, physical illness, childbirth, circumstances (loneliness or
relationship), stress (juggling job and family demands), or distressing events such as redundancy,
bereavement or childhood trauma abuse.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

• Lack of motivation for the things that you enjoyed previously
• Feeling unhappy, anxious or sad most of the time
• Problems with sleeping, waking early, sleeping too much or too little
• Feeling tired despite having plenty of rest
• Changes in eating habits, either eating a lot more or a lot less
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Feeling you can't cope with day to day activities
• Feeling hopeless or worthless
• Negative thinking, about yourself, other people or the world in general
• Withdrawing from social situations to avoid people
• Feelings of irritation, anxiety
• Feeling sluggish and lethargic, both physically and mentally
• Increase in bodily aches and pains
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you have 5 or more of the above signs and symptoms for more than 2 weeks you should make
an appointment to see your GP.

There are different types of depression and your GP will be able to discuss your individual circumstances
with you. Depression responds very well to 'talking therapies' and many GPs suggest counselling either
before trying medication or in additon to it.

Contact us to arrange an appointment to speak to one of our counsellors.