Depression

Depression affects 350 million people worldwide. It is a mood disorder which can also result in suicide. Suicide accounted for 2,616,428 deaths in 2014 (according to The National Vital Statistics Reports). In my experience, Depression is the result of cognitive distortions or beliefs about the world and an individual’s perception of one’s self in the world.

Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder include:

• Depressed mood or irritable most of the day
• Decreased interest or pleasure in most activities
• Significant weight change or change in appetite
• Insomnia or hypersomnia
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Guilt/worthlessness
• Diminished ability to think or concentrate
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or has a suicide plan.

Depression is a debilitating mental health disorder that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Person’s battling Depression seek to overcome their illness but often fall short due to the lack of hope and motivation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy have proven effective in my practice. The approach is used to assist patients in changing how they think, feel, and behave. With insight into the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behavior, an individual can find purpose and meaning again. Depression is treatable and with consistent therapy/treatment a person can start living again and take their life back!