Depression

 
There are many causes for depression, for example you may  have suffered a loss, been made redundant, be suffering from post-natal  depression or possibly suffer from a bi-polar disorder. Some of the symptoms of depression are:

• feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
• feeling useless, inadequate, bad, self hatred, constant questioning of thoughts and actions, an overwhelming need for reassurance
• being vulnerable and "over-sensitive", feeling guilty
• a loss of energy and motivation, that makes even the simplest tasks or decision seem difficult
• self harm
• loss or gain in weight
• difficulty with getting off to sleep, or (less frequently) and excessive desire to sleep
• agitation and restlessness
• loss of sex drive
• finding it impossible to concentrate for any length of time, forgetfulness and a sense of unreality
• physical aches and pains, sometimes with the fear that you are seriously ill

 
In more serious cases of depression these feelings may  also include:

 
• suicidal ideas
• failure to eat or drink
• delusions and/or hallucinations

You should always seek the advice of your GP since  depression may be symptomatic of other issues that may have a physical cause.  Treatment for depression may include prescribed anti-depressants or other  medication. Generally counselling and/or psychotherapy can very positively  assist in either managing or even resolving depression. Psychotherapy may be  short (up to 12 months) and focussed (e.g. CBT which could identify and then  seek to change the negative thoughts and feelings affecting behaviour) or  longer term focussing on relationships, past experiences with a focus on  expressing feelings so that original solutions may be found which may be only  applicable to that individual.