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Depression
The
Experience of Depression
Clinical depression can be a
debilitating and painful illness that can significantly affect our
relationships and ability to work. While sadness may be one of the
hallmark characteristics of depression, there is also a constellation of
negative moods, harsh thinking patterns and diminished motivation. The
individual often feels weak, discouraged, and defeated and withdraws
from life activities. Symptoms include a loss of pleasure or interest
in activities, difficulties in concentration, sleep problems, diminished
energy and sex drive, and even thoughts of death or suicide.
The triggering of painful
themes usually generated the experience of depression. One theme
involves a sense of failure in life tasks, accompanied by feelings of
inadequacy. The other major theme in depression is loss. This is
accompanied by memories of previous loss and deep feelings of
insecurity.
Cognitive
Therapy for Depression
After a thorough assessment of symptoms and problem
areas, we try to achieve rapid symptom relief. Through behavioral and self-control techniques,
we help the client break out of withdrawal and apathy, re-engage the
world and increase activities.
We then focus on the harsh, rigid, and biased
thinking that afflicts depressed people. Since negative distorted thinking fuels symptoms of depression,
we
help clients detect and counteract these negative thoughts.
Once symptom relief has been achieved, we turn to
the generators of depression – the core beliefs that leave one
vulnerable to depression. Examples of core beliefs in depression
include, “I am a failure”, and “I’ll always be alone.” Using cognitive
and experiential strategies, we help clients develop more flexible and
compassionate beliefs to free them from depression.
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SM