HELPING THOSE AFFECTED BY DEPRESSION
THERAPY FOR WORKING WITH DEPRESSION
Depression is increasing worldwide and, with the lasting effects of COVID-19, is more common than ever. It affects mood, disrupts daily life, and in severe cases, can lead to self-harm or suicidality.
There is a lot of stigma around depression. People experience the feelings associated with depression in a variety of ways, leading to different intensities of anger, sadness, and/or grief.
Unique Peace Counselling is experienced in working with depression. We are here to speak with you, ask questions, and provide you with a thorough approach to help explain the emotions that you are experiencing.
ADDRESSING YOUR UNIQUE NEEDS
OTHER Focuses
NEURODIVERGENCY AND DEPRESSION
Neurodivergence and Comorbid Depression
Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD and/or Autism, often struggle with depression. Growing up in a neurotypical world can worsen these experiences and lead to hopelessness. Due to hyposensitivity, they may also face challenges identifying and processing emotions, making it difficult to recognize emotional triggers behind their depression.
Working with a neurodivergent-informed therapist can help you to better know the role of your neurodivergent traits in impacting your depression. Additionally, you may also be able to learn that your depression may be the result of unmet neurodivergent-related needs.
EXTREME DEPRESSION AND NEURODIVERGENCY
SENSORY CHALLENGES AND DEPRESSION
Some ADHD and/or Autistic clients may experience severe sensory challenges that lead to self-harm or suicidality. Persistent hypersensitivities to emotions and stimuli can keep the body in a constant state of stress, potentially resulting in Autistic and/or ADHD Burnout, where individuals may not respond to medication and develop new challenges.
Others may experience Alexithymia, where the nervous system struggles to assess or feel emotions, masking intense stress. A neurodivergent-informed therapist can help normalize and destigmatize these experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
Depression is a state best characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and solitude. Additionally, depressed individuals may also report a lack of enjoyment and satisfaction of activities, hobbies and milestones.
HOW PREVALENT IS DEPRESSION?
It is estimated that nearly 3 million Canadians suffer from a variety of depression in different forms.
WHAT ARE THE TRAITS ASSOCIATED WITH DEPRESSION?
Depression is not just feeling sad, lonely, or melancholy. Depression is when these common feelings become overwhelming and impact your day-to-day activities. Among others, common traits include:
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
- Oversleeping or Insomnia
- Loss of Self-Esteem
- Loss of Motivation
- Changes in Weight or Appetite
- Decreased Sexual Drive
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CAUSES OF DEPRESSION?
Depression can be caused by a variety of genetic or environmental factors. Research suggests that the most common causes of depression stem from stressful life events, medications and drug use, genetic vulnerability, and trauma. Individuals may also be at a higher risk for depression when they are neurodivergent.
HOW TO COPE WITH DEPRESSION?
Like anxiety, depression can be rooted in various causes. As such, every individual’s coping strategies are different and heavily customized. This is why working wit a professional may help you to better understand your needs and how they relate to depression.
