Vancouver Depression Counselling & Manic Depressive Therapy

Everyone feels sad at times or inexplicably tearful or just plain "down." These uncomfortable feelings are part of life. But when they persist, affecting the way one eats and sleeps, feels about oneself, and thinks about family, friends, and work, then they are not just a part of life, but symptoms of a clinical illness.

There are a number of different symptoms, such as loss of energy, loss of interest in activities and in life, sadness, loss of appetite and weight, difficulty concentrating, self criticism, feelings of hopelessness, physical complaints, withdrawal from other people, irritability and indecisiveness, and suicidal thinking. Many people who are depressed feel anxious as well - worried, nauseated or dizzy, sometimes with hot or cold flushes, blurred vision, racing heart beat and sweating.

Three types of depressive disorders are most common.

• A major depression interferes with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. Such a disabling episode may happen only once in a lifetime, but more commonly it occurs several times.
• Dysthymia is the term used to describe long-term symptoms that, while not disabling, keep one from functioning well or feeling good.
• Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive illness, which is characterized by severe highs (mania) and lows (depression).

What causes Depression?

Depression is multiply determined. A number of different factors can cause it. These factors can be biochemical, interpersonal, behavioural or cognitive (thinking).

Behaviour: There is considerable evidence that people who suffer significant life stresses are more likely to become depressed (loss of work, friendships, a loved one). Depressed people tend to engage in fewer activities and often become inactive. Thus they miss out on rewarding behaviour, i.e. participating in activities that give them pleasure. Sometimes people get depressed because they have difficulty asserting themselves, solving problems or dealing with new demands. Feeling out of control is another trigger for depression.

Thinking in certain ways tends to cause depression. For instance labelling oneself a failure, predicting negative outcomes for the future and thinking in extremes are all examples of thinking styles that not only lead to depression but perpetuate it.

How does Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) work for Depression?

CBT treats depression by identifying and changing the behaviours and thinking patterns that cause and maintain depression. This therapy focuses on present, "here and now" thoughts and behaviours. In CBT, you and your therapist will identify your symptoms and their severity, select goals you wish to attain in treatment (such as increasing self esteem or improving communication). You will also look at how your actions or lack of actions contribute to you feelings and identify negative or unrealistic ways of thinking that may make you feel depressed.

How effective is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Depression?

Numerous research studies across the world and major universities have consistently demonstrated that CBT is as effective as anti-depressant medication.

With twenty or less sessions of individual therapy, approximately 75% of patients experience a significant decrease in their symptoms.

A combination of CBT and anti-depressant medication increases the efficacy of CBT to 85% in some studies. CBT also teaches people to prevent depressive symptoms from coming back.

Are medications useful?

Various medications have been found to be effective in the treatment of depression. It usually takes two to four weeks before you will feel the benefit of the medication in your system. Some medications may have negative effects - these are usually temporary and decrease over time. Unlike tranquillizers, anti-depressants are not addictive.

What is expected of you as a client?

CBT treatment for depression requires your active participation. You will help in the planning of your treatment and you may also will have homework exercises to assist you in changing your behaviour, thoughts and relationships as necessary.

Counseling depression clients throughout Burnaby, Coquitlam, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey and Vancouver!