Depression 

Understanding Depression: You're Not Alone

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Feeling low from time to time is part of being human. Often, a dip in our mood signals that something isn’t quite right—perhaps stress at work, difficulties at home, or strains in our relationships. While staying positive can help, it’s not always enough. You can’t just “think your way” out of depression. That’s why caring for your mental health is just as essential as looking after your physical well-being.

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Learning to spot the signs of depression early can stop things from getting worse. And even if you’re already feeling overwhelmed, know that recovery is possible—with the right support and guidance.

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What Makes Depression Different?

We all experience emotional ups and downs, but depression is much more than a bad day or feeling “a bit off.” It’s a real and often debilitating illness that can slowly erode your confidence, self-worth, and outlook on life. Depression distorts the way you see yourself and your future. It can feel like you’re stuck in a downward spiral, where each negative thought adds weight to the last.

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What’s especially hard is that depression can trick us into believing things will never improve. But despite how it feels, depression is often temporary—and treatable. Sometimes, what's keeping it going isn't immediately obvious, which is why professional help can make a real difference.

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What Does Depression Feel Like?

For many, the emotions that come with depression are hard to describe. People might use metaphors like being trapped in a black hole, weighed down by an invisible force, or stuck in a pit of despair. Others may feel anxious, disconnected, or completely numb.

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You might have tried opening up to friends or family, only to worry you’re burdening them—or that they won’t understand. That’s when many people begin to withdraw and isolate themselves, avoiding contact or staying in bed for long periods. In the short term, this might feel like self-preservation, but over time it can deepen feelings of loneliness and hopelessness.

You don’t need to struggle through this alone. If any of this resonates with you, now might be the right time to seek help.

 

How Counselling Can Support You

Talking with a trained professional can bring relief and clarity when you're feeling depressed. Counselling offers a safe, non-judgmental space where your thoughts and feelings are taken seriously—perhaps for the first time in a long while.

It’s not about being told what to do. It’s about being truly heard. Through this connection, you can start to understand what’s going on beneath the surface, develop new ways of coping, and begin to feel more hopeful and in control.

Many people who’ve experienced counselling say it helped them feel lighter, more empowered, and better able to enjoy life again.

 

Recognising the Signs of Depression

Everyone experiences depression differently, but here are some common signs to be aware of—especially if they’ve lasted for more than two weeks and interfere with your daily life:

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Emotional and Psychological Symptoms

• Persistent low mood or sadness

• Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness

• Tearfulness or frequent crying

• Irritability or intolerance of others

• Guilt or self-blame

• Loss of interest in things you usually enjoy

• Difficulty making decisions

• Feeling anxious or worried

• Suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm

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Physical Symptoms

• Moving or speaking more slowly

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Unexplained aches and pains

• Fatigue or lack of energy

• Disturbed sleep (difficulty sleeping or oversleeping)

• Reduced interest in sex

• Changes to your menstrual cycle

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Social Symptoms

• Withdrawing from friends and family

• Neglecting hobbies and interests

• Poor performance at work or school

• Avoiding social situations

• Struggling with everyday tasks

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Because depression often comes on gradually, it can be hard to notice just how much you’re being affected. You might think you’re just tired, stressed, or “not yourself,” but if these feelings persist, it could be depression.

 

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