Depression is one of the two most frequent reasons for individuals to seek out a psychotherapist. Everyone feels sad or "blue" now and then. But if you feel that way continuously for two weeks or more, you may have a more serious problem...you may be suffering from a clinical depression. Ask yourself the following questions:
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Does each day feel like a struggle or heavy burden?
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Do you have an overwhelming feeling of emptiness, sadness, or loss of interest in everyday activities?
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Are you crying too often, too much, or at inappropriate times?
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Do you have a hard time focusing, concentrating, or making decisions?
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Do you feel guilty, helpless, hopeless, or worthless?
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Are you experiencing chronic irritability, having trouble sleeping,
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Do you have thoughts of death or suicide?
If you answered yes to any of these, it would be best for you to be evaluated by a doctor or psychologist-- you probably are experiencing depression.
There is no one cause of depression. It could be brought on by a single event: a death in the family, a serious illness, a set-back at work or school, a prolonged period of intense pressure and stress. genetics, too, can play a role. Depression is readily treatable with psychotherapy and, in some cases, medication. At The Psychotherapy Center, we use insight-oriented psychotherapy to help you understand the causes and root of your depression, rebuild your sense of self-worth and confidence, increase feelings of purpose, meaning and connection, and decrease feelings of guilt and worry.