Depression
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Date

Depression is a mental health condition that affects mood, thoughts, and behaviour, causing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest. It can result from various factors, including genetics, life events, and brain chemistry. Counseling or talk therapy is an effective treatment for depression, as a therapist can help individuals develop coping skills, challenge negative beliefs, and explore underlying issues that contribute to their depression.

Prevalence of depression in the UK

Depression is a common mental health condition in the UK, affecting a significant proportion of the population. According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in 2020, an estimated 19.2% of adults in the UK experienced some form of depression.

The prevalence of depression varies by age, gender, and other demographic factors. Women are more likely than men to experience depression, with an estimated 22.5% of women experiencing depression compared to 15.8% of men. The highest rates of depression were reported among young adults aged 16-29, with an estimated 29.4% experiencing depression.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on mental health in the UK, with many people experiencing increased stress, anxiety, and depression as a result of the pandemic and associated restrictions. According to a mental health charity Mind survey, more than half of adults (60%) and over two-thirds of young people (68%) in the UK reported their mental health had worsened during the pandemic.

Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Symptoms and treatment

Some common symptoms of depression include:

  • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
  • Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Insomnia or excessive sleeping
  • Fatigue or lack of energy
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking help is important. Depression is treatable, and many effective treatments are available, including counselling, therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy commonly used to treat depression. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours contributing to depression. Other types of therapy that may be effective for depression include interpersonal therapy (IPT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy.

In addition to therapy, medication can also be effective in treating depression. Antidepressants work by changing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood and may be used in combination with therapy for the best results.

Lifestyle changes can also be effective in managing depression. Regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and getting enough sleep can all help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Remember, depression is a treatable condition, and seeking help is the first step towards feeling better. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, reach out to a mental health professional for support and guidance.

More
articles

Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Unbounded Generosity: The Double-Edged Sword – PART II

In the world of generosity, there’s often more than meets the eye. Excessive generosity, while well-intentioned, can be driven by a multitude of underlying causes. From the desire for approval and fear of rejection to cultural norms and a genuine thirst for personal fulfilment, these motivations can intermingle and push individuals to give excessively, sometimes at the expense of their own well-being.

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Unbounded Generosity: The Double-Edged Sword – PART I

In the grand tapestry of human virtues, generosity and kindness are threads that weave through our lives, enhancing the fabric of our existence. These qualities, when practiced with care and intention, hold the power to uplift not only those we extend our goodwill to but also ourselves. However, like any intricate pattern, the virtue of generosity can unravel if pulled too taut.

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Walk-and-Talk Therapy

Dear Clients, I am excited to introduce you to an approach called walk-and-talk counselling or walk-and-talk therapy. Instead of the traditional office setting, we will embark on a therapeutic journey outdoors, allowing us to explore your inner world while experiencing the healing power of nature. In this blog, I will explain the concept of walk-and-talk…

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

The Health Impact of Gaslighting

Gaslighting, a form of psychological manipulation, affects an individual’s emotional well-being and has profound implications for physical health. The insidious nature of gaslighting can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and other health complications. In this blog, we will explore the health impact of gaslighting, shedding light on the connection between psychological abuse and physical well-being.…

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Gaslighting and Its Impact

Gaslighting is a psychological manipulation tactic that undermines a person’s perception of reality, leaving them doubting their own experiences and sanity. Coined from the 1944 film “Gaslight,” where the protagonist’s husband intentionally manipulates her, gaslighting has since become a recognised form of emotional abuse. In this blog, we will delve into the insidious nature of…

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural response to stress and can manifest as excessive worry, fear, and apprehension about future events. While anxiety can be a normal and adaptive response, it can become debilitating when it interferes with daily functioning. Counselling can help individuals with anxiety by providing a safe and supportive environment to explore the underlying causes and triggers of their anxiety.

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Emotional Trauma

Emotional trauma occurs when an individual experiences a life-threatening event beyond their coping capacity, including abuse, natural disasters, and war. Psychotherapy can help individuals address symptoms, explore emotions, and develop coping strategies to manage its impact on their lives.

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse, or domestic violence, involves an intimate partner exerting power and control over the other, through physical, sexual, emotional, or financial means. Psychotherapy can assist individuals in processing their emotions, managing any related symptoms, enhancing self-awareness, building self-esteem and self-confidence, and regaining control over their lives.

Read more

Parent Counselling

Parenting is a complex and multifaceted task, and parents may face various challenges at different stages of their child’s development. Speaking about parenting challenges can help understand and normalise parents’ experiences, learn new strategies and reduce stress.

Read more
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland, Moray

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse means using drugs or alcohol in a harmful or excessive way, which can seriously damage a person’s physical and mental health, relationships, and work life. It can cause addiction, depression, and anxiety, as well as accidents and poor decision-making. Seeking help is crucial to prevent or overcome substance abuse and its long-term effects on well-being.

Read more