DEPRESSION
"The grey drizzle of horror," author William Styron memorably called depression. The mood disorder may descend seemingly out of the blue, or it may come on the heels of a defeat or personal loss, producing persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness, helplessness, pessimism, or guilt. Depression also interferes with concentration, motivation, and other aspects of everyday functioning.
Depression is a complex condition, involving many systems of the body, including the immune system, either as cause or effect. It disrupts sleep and it interferes with appetite; in some cases, it causes weight loss; in others, it contributes to weight gain. Depression is also often accompanied by anxiety. Research indicates that not only do the two conditions co-occur but that they overlap in vulnerability patterns. (psychologytoday.com)
In treating depression, I guide my clients to develop insight into how their own patterns of reactions to negative experience set off a downward spiral of thinking that lead to depression as well as help them develop coping skills that interrupt the chain of reactivity. By helping my clients discover their own resources for problem solving, they become equipped to regain control and lead a happy and peaceful life.