Therapy for Depression Is A Catalyst For Lasting Change

Therapy for one's depression can be very effective. 

THE BAD NEWS: Depression is a very serious, potentially disabling condition. It can hit suddenly, or slowly and steadily get worse over time, sneaking up on us so that we don't even notice how bad it's gotten! People in our society minimize it, but it's no small thing. Details on Major Depressive Disorder, as diagnosed in the DSM-5 (the diagnostic manual of mental disorders used in the USA), can be found here. Anyone who has experienced symptoms approaching the threshold for this condition understands clearly that depression is a tough thing to deal with. 

THE GOOD NEWS: Depression is very treatable. Counseling can and does help many people overcome this disabling condition and resume a healthy life. 

Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms? 

* Diminished interest in daily activities

* Significant weight loss

* Increased irritability

* Difficulty concentrating

* Inability to sleep...or sleeping more than usual

* Crying spells

* Chronic fatigue or lack of energy

* Thoughts about death, or suicidal thoughts

* Feelings of worthlessness

If you are experiencing several of these on any kind of regular basis, you may be experiencing depression. Fortunately, depression therapy can help. I have helped many clients work through their depression and can help you too. 

Another important factor to consider is the quality of your interpersonal relationships. If we surround ourselves with positive people, this helps with our own outlook on life. If not, then this can make things worse, possibly much worse. For more information on healthy relationships, click here. 

NOTE: It is wise to schedule an appointment with your physician to discuss any possible physical health problems that could be causing these symptoms. 

How Can Mental Health Counseling Help Me?

Many people see a counselor for depression. In fact, it is one of the most common reasons people seek counseling. I frequently use the Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) model, an evidence-based treatment for depression. I supplement this with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and several other proven therapeutic modalities that have been demonstrated to help with depression. There is a great deal of evidence that demonstrates that CBT and DBT help many individuals suffering from depression find relief. Stress and anxiety very often accompany depressive symptoms. More good news: Stress and anxiety are also very treatable. I use a counseling approach that helps you address and tackle both anxiety and depression. Coping skills for depression are a click away.

In addition, I find that it can be extremely helpful to take stock of one's personal values. In particular, examining our values (what we believe is most important in life) in light of our goals and what we find ourselves doing on a daily basis can be fundamental in overcoming depression. Let me put it another way: if you're feeling stuck in life and you aren't able to do the things that you truly value, it's a recipe for depression and (eventually) regret. More on personal values here. 

Talking to a Complete Stranger About My Problems Seems Overwhelming

The notion of telling your problems to a stranger can feel daunting. However, it’s important to remember that you’re seeing a trained, strength-based professional who knows how to support and empower people in overcoming depression. Throw in the fact that I will provide a free initial consultation, and you have almost nothing to lose! Therapy for depression helps thousands of people every year across the United States. I use evidence-based methods to empower you in coping with and overcoming depression.

In addition, there are several very good resources out there to help you in your quest to overcome depression. Dr. David Burns (one of the early Cognitive Therapists) has several. More good books that can provide inspiration can be found on my book review page. 

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Are there tools I can use right now?

Absolutely. For starters, consider visiting this link to learn the basics about CBT here. Or click here for some tips and tools you can use right now. One of the most basic assumptions of the CBT model is that the thoughts we have about the events that occur in our daily lives result in certain emotions for us. Understanding this events-thoughts-feelings cycle is the key to changing the way we think and feel. It does work!

Anxiety often goes hand in hand with depression. For more information on addressing anxiety, check out this page. 

Suffering from low self esteem? Try these tools.

I'm soooo angry....but I don't know how to express it

You are in very good company. For many people, one of the major causes of depression is unresolved anger. Gain valuable insight while garnering tools to address your anger in a healthy way here. 

If I’m feeling suicidal, what can I do?

If you feel like hurting or killing yourself, and aren’t sure what to do, it is strongly recommend that you call the WhiteBird Crisis Line (in Eugene/Springfield) at 541-687-4000. If you do not reside in the Eugene/Springfield area, consider calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. And, when in doubt, you can always call 911 and tell them you are in a mental health emergency and are currently feeling suicidal. 

Mental Health Therapy Can Help You

Therapy helps many people coping with depression. There are evidence-based procedures that work. I use these proven techniques (including but not limited to CBT) that empower people to live with and overcome depression. I can help you, too. You may contact me for an initial consultation at geneobersinnerlcsw@gmail.com.

Co-occurring Issues, Including Physical Health Conditions

It is very common for persons struggling with a mental health issue (such as depression, anxiety, etc.) to simultaneously be coping with problems with their physical health.  Obviously, the reverse is also true. Anyone who has ever had a serious medical condition will tell you that the emotional challenges that come with it are significant, and can be overwhelming.

Regardless of your condition, it is very important to consult with an expert--a doctor and a mental health professional--so that you can have the resources and support that you need as you address both the physical and emotional challenges that come with this. Help is available. 

Are You a College Student Trying to Adapt to the Pressures of a New Life? 

If you are a college student who is new to college life, or who is experiencing a rough patch in your college experience, please know that I have extensive experience in working with college students around mental health issues, coping with trauma, and career decisions/direction. More on this here.