Shining a Light on the Shadows: An Exploration of Depression

As a psychotherapist, I recognise the importance of sharing knowledge and insights to empower individuals on their journey towards understanding themselves and the issues that they may be experiencing. One of the reasons that some individuals choose to seek therapeutic support is because they are experiencing symptoms of depression, or when they have received a diagnosis of depression.

Depression is a word which has become commonplace in our vocabularies, but many of us may not fully understand what it means. In this blog post, I hope to shed some light on depression by exploring what depression is, what the symptoms of depression are, what factors may contribute to depression, and what help is available for those who are experiencing it.

What is depression?

Depression is more than just a passing bout of sadness; it is a complex and pervasive mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Often characterised by a persistent low mood, depression can significantly impact various aspects of a person's life, from their emotions and thoughts to their physical well-being.

Symptoms of Depression:

While individuals may experience depression differently, here are some of the symptoms that indiviuals with depression commonly experience.

1. Persistent sadness or low mood

   • Individuals with depression often experience an enduring sense of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness.

2. Loss of interest or pleasure

   • When we are depressed, hobbies, activities, and social interactions that once brought joy may lose their appeal, contributing to a sense of disinterest.

3. Fatigue and lack of energy

   • Depression can manifest physically, leading to persistent feelings of exhaustion and a noticeable decline in energy levels.

4. Changes in sleep patterns

   • Depression can impact our sleep. Trouble sleeping (e.g. insomnia) or excessive sleeping can disrupt normal sleep patterns, exacerbating the overall impact on mental health.

5. Changes in appetite

   • Our mood can have an impact on our eating habits. When we feel depressed we can find ourselves eating more than usual, or less than usual, which can result in significant weight gain or loss.

6. Difficulty concentrating

   • Depression can cause cognitive challenges, such as difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions.

7. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

   • Experiencing difficult and/or negative feelings is a common symptom of depression. Individuals may grapple with intense feelings of worthlessness or guilt, often magnifying negative self-perceptions.

8. Irritability

   • Depression can manifest as irritability, impacting relationships and contributing to heightened emotional sensitivity.

9. Physical aches and pains

   • Unexplained physical symptoms, including headaches, muscle aches, and digestive issues, may accompany depression.

10. Thoughts of death or suicidal ideation

    • In severe cases of depression, individuals may experience persistent thoughts of death or contemplate suicide.

Understanding the Causes of Depression

Depression is a nuanced condition with many causes, often involving a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Some common contributors include:

1. Biological factors

   • Genetics, chemical imbalances in the brain, and hormonal changes can play a role in predisposing individuals to depression.

2. Psychological factors:

   • Past trauma, low self-esteem, and unresolved emotional issues may contribute to the development of depression.

3. Environmental factors:

   • Stressful life events, such as loss, financial difficulties, or relationship challenges, can trigger or exacerbate depression.

What Support is Available?

Urgent Support

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call Pieta on 1800 247 247, or The Samaritans on 116 123. You can also text Pieta on 51444.

GP

If you think that you are experiencing depression, it is advisable to make an appointment with your GP to discuss supports that are available to you. If you need to speak to someone urgently for support, contact The Samaritans on 1800 247 247.

Therapy

Therapy can be a helpful support for individuals experiencing depression. It is a safe, confidential space to share with your therapist what you are going through, and through sensitive exploration, you may gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings, and of potential underlying causes of your depression. Therapy can also help us to gain awareness of unhelpful behaviours and develop new, healthier habits and coping skills which can enhance our mood and wellbeing.

If you or someone you know is grappling with depression, seeking professional help is a courageous and important step towards reclaiming a life of fulfilment.

If you feel that you need therapeutic support, and that I might be the right therapist for you, please email me at lornaboyletherapy@gmail.com or call 083 3815651, to set up a free consultation.

You can also find therapists in your area by using the search tool at www.iacp.ie