Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity. It is one of the most common issues addressed in psychotherapy. It can be both a predictable and adaptive response to life events and can be a debilitating psychological condition. When depressive symptoms are more severe and persistent, the individual is said to be suffering from clinical depression. Such individuals can make use of both psychotherapy and anti-depressant medication. Depression can manifest as a large variety of symptoms, most often feelings of sadness or despair that do not go away. Depression can negatively affect a person’s ability to function effectively in the activities of daily living. Many individuals, however, suffer much less severe depressive symptoms, and antidepressants are not necessarily essential to the depression treatment process in these cases.

A depressed person will experience or display some of the following:

• Persistent sadness, anxiety or feelings of emptiness
• Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and/or pessimism.
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Contemplating suicide or suicide attempt
• Problems concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
• Fatigue and loss of energy
• Persistent aches, pains or digestive problems that are resistant to treatment
• Irritability or restlessness
• Insomnia, waking early, or excessive sleeping
• Overeating, or appetite loss
• Loss of interest in activities that once were pleasurable (e.g., hobbies, sex, social activities, etc.)

If you are struggling with depression and looking for a counselor to talk with, contact JLS Consulting today to learn more about what one-on-one counseling can do for you.