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Patrick McGee & Associates
Psychologists, Counselling Sydney

Depression Counselling Sydney

The term depression is used to describe various and sometimes overlapping experiences. To many people being depressed means feeling ‘blue’, down, disappointed, or upset. However we can feel these emotions without being ‘clinically’ depressed. Feelings of sadness are generally brief and have slight effects on functioning. Clinical depression is an emotional, physical, and cognitive (thinking) state that is intense and long-lasting and has more negative effects on an individual’s day-to-day life.

Depression may occur only once in a person's life. Often, however, it occurs as repeated episodes over a lifetime, with periods free of depression in between. Or it may be a chronic condition, requiring ongoing treatment over a lifetime.

It is important to distinguish depression from the sadness we naturally experience after loss, such as during bereavement. Although the grief associated with loss is intense and long-lasting, such emotions are healthy and functional, allowing people to adjust to their new life after the loss.

Depression on the other hand is not functional or healthy. Instead of providing people with new avenues for development and growth, depression often robs us of finding meaning in our lives and inhibits our personal growth.

People of all ages and races suffer from depression. Medications are available that are generally safe and effective, even for the most severe depression. With proper treatment, most people with serious depression improve, often within weeks, and can return to normal daily activities.

Depression Counsellors Sydney

There are two major forms of treatment for depression that may be used individually, or in combination depending on the type of depression.

Psychological treatments for depression provide a supportive environment to share and work through difficulties. Psychologists help by providing skills and strategies to change thinking patterns and behaviours that contribute to depression. Studies on effectiveness of psychological interventions for depression have shown that cognitive behavioural therapy and interpersonal therapy are particularly successful.
For more serious types of depression treatment may involve both psychological and anti-depressant medication, which may help change the individual’s mood state and allow them to better cope with ongoing problems that may trigger or contribute to depression.