Depression Counselling and Therapy
“It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.” — Aristotle
Feeling sad or down from time to time is a normal part of life. Although it may be unpleasant to experience these emotions, they typically do not last long for most people. However, if feelings of sadness, low mood, and negative thoughts persist for an extended period, they can spiral along with intensifying depressive symptoms that affect your quality of life, work, and relationships.
Common Symptoms
Depression can manifest in various ways, including:
- Persistent feelings of helplessness
- Crying uncontrollably or unexpectedly
- Fatigue and difficulties sleeping
- Anger or irritability
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty experiencing pleasure or joy
- Self-loathing
- Reckless behaviour
- Thoughts of self-harm
These symptoms vary from person to person. Some describe it as “living in a black hole” or being followed around by a “suffocating grey cloud.” Others feel lifeless, apathetic, or empty and find it difficult to engage socially or lose interest in work or activities they once enjoyed. Despite how overwhelming these feelings can be, with the right help and support, it is possible to manage and even overcome these symptoms.
If any of this resonates with you, please remember that you do not have to face it alone. Depression counselling and therapy can be a lifeline, offering you the support needed to understand the root causes of these feelings and uncover related thoughts and behaviours. You will also develop resources and skills to manage such emotions more effectively, helping you to live the life you truly want.
What can I expect from depression counselling?
Counselling is a form of talk therapy that helps you understand and address the issues contributing to your depressive feelings. It’s a journey of self-discovery, where you gain clarity on what is important to you and create a plan to move towards a more joyful, fulfilling, and satisfying life.
During depression counselling, you may uncover deeper issues underlying the ongoing distress. You have the option to explore these further through psychotherapy, working towards resolving them. Depression therapy can also address how past experiences impact your current life and struggles, promoting healing and empowerment.
Someone I know is depressed and has self-harm and suicidal thoughts. Should I bring this person for counselling and therapy?
If a person is experiencing a crisis and has very active suicidal urges, the priority is to keep them safe. Here are some helplines to approach:
- IMH Helpline: 6389 2222 (24hr)
- SOS Helpline: 1800 221 4444 (24hr)
In the event of an immediate risk, call 999, or bring the person to the emergency room at your nearest hospital if you are able to do so safely.
Stability and commitment to safety are necessary conditions for progress in depression counselling and therapy.
When someone feels depressed to the extent of considering self-harm or suicide, they often feel very alone and unsupported. In addition to individual counselling, we encourage family involvement through family counselling and therapy, providing a broader support network to aid in the healing process.
Should I take medications together with counselling and psychotherapy to improve my depression?
Every individual’s situation, severity of symptoms, safety risk and preferences are unique. For many, depression counselling and psychotherapy alone are effective when they actively apply what they learn in sessions and make positive changes in their lives. In some cases, medications serve as temporary support while undergoing counselling and psychotherapy. These decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. If you have any questions, they will be addressed during the counselling process, incorporating information from your medical provider to help you gain clarity on the most appropriate course of action.
Contact us or book an appointment to find out how we can support you during this time.
ABOUT US
At In Focus, we empathise with our clients as they go through myriad of life’s problems, stresses and challenges which are overwhelming at times. As these happened to us too. The only difference is, it is our profession to help others overcome these life hurdles so as to live life to the fullest.
OUR SERVICES
We have a range of services available for your consideration depending on your needs. You can get in touch with us for coaching services, corporate consultation, professional training, counselling and psychotherapy services. Please visit our services page to see what we offer.
CONTACT US
Phone: +65 8725 9303
Email: enquiry@in-focus.com.sg