Helping You live A More Fulfilling Life!
Depression Counselling
Most people experience periods of feeling low, however depression can cause you to persistently feel sad for weeks, months, or even years. Low self-esteem; feeling worthless or guilty; trouble sleeping; feeling constantly tired; lack of motivation; difficulty concentrating; low appetite; low sex drive; feelings of hopelessness; suicidal thoughts; self-harm; withdrawing from friends and family are all associated with depression.
Depression can often develop gradually. Many people continue to cope despite their symptoms worsening without realising they are depressed. Sometimes it takes a significant event or someone around us to help us realise something is wrong. It is important to remember that depression is a real illness with real symptoms. Depression is not a sign of weakness or something you can “snap out of” by “pulling yourself together”.
There are many contributing factors to how depression can develop. For example, if we have experienced exposure to violence; neglect; abuse, or poverty, we are more vulnerable to depression. Sometimes new parents develop depression after having a baby; this is known as postnatal depression. If depression runs in your family; there is a higher chance you will have depression at some point in your life. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression with a seasonal pattern usually related to winter.
The good news is that depression counselling is an effective, evidence-based method to combat this illness. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, we help you explore your feelings, discover coping strategies, and find relief from depression.
Why Choose Horizon Counselling?
Compassionate Therapy
We provide compassionate support, offering a holistic approach to better understanding these psychological defences, treating you as a whole person, and not as a diagnosis. With curiosity and compassion, we’ll explore where these defences came from, how early life experiences have shaped you, and have led to your feeling unhappy, lost, and dissatisfied with life.
Personalised Depression Therapy
Depression affects each person differently. Whilst feeling sad is a normal part of life, persistent depression can transform from mild depression to severe depression quickly and can lead to a range of other emotional and physical health issues. When painful emotions go unaddressed, they often find other, sometimes harmful, ways of making themselves known. Together, we’ll sit in the discomfort side by side.
Safe and Confidential Environment
For many people who live with depression, it can be tremendously debilitating. Although some may feel resistance to the idea of accessing counselling for depression, we have found many of our clients typically respond well to talking therapy. At Horizon Counselling, we are committed to providing a safe and confidential space where you can openly explore your experiences without fear of judgement. We create a supportive atmosphere where you can regain, or perhaps gain for the first time, a sense of agency and self-understanding.
Benefits of Depression Counselling
- Improved Mood: When we feel listened to, heard, and understood, this lessens the sense of loneliness and improves connectedness. When we start to prioritise our mental health, we can begin to feel more positive about life, and start dealing with life in a healthier way. Embracing therapy is an act of courage and self-compassion. This is a step towards healing, and we want to help you uncover your inner strengths, gain new insights, and hone the skills you need in order to overcome life’s challenges.
- Enhanced Coping Skills: Rediscovering happiness can sometimes feel impossible, especially when battling depression. However, happiness is a state that can be cultivated with mindful practices and positive lifestyle changes. Through consistent, compassionate and empathic support, we’ll work to understand your lived experiences and discover ways to build resilience and move forwards.
- Supportive Therapeutic Environment: Embarking on a journey towards overcoming depression requires patience and self-care. Together we’ll sit in the discomfort of the emotions and give them the space they’re deserving of and asking for and explore opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery.
- Personal Growth: Telling your story can offer you the chance to regain, or perhaps gain for the first time, a sense of agency and self-understanding. Engaging with a therapist can empower you to transform pain into growth, restore some balance, and teach you the necessary strategies to process your feelings constructively and move forward with resilience and optimism.
