megan@carleycounselingservices.com

(972) 275-6590

megan@carleycounselingservices.com

(972) 275-6590

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Depression

Symptoms, Treatment & the Benefits of Therapy

Understanding Depression

Depression is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It can have a profound impact on a person’s thoughts, emotions and overall well-being. At Carley Counseling Services, Megan Carley, MSW, LCSW-S specializes in providing comprehensive support for individuals struggling with depression. Our goal is to help individuals understand their symptoms, explore effective treatment options and discover the benefits of therapy in their healing journey.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression

A sad face with a tear is surrounded by a circular arrow, hinting at the cycle of emotions often explored in therapy. The black outline of the face and the orange arrow reflect an ongoing struggle with anxiety, resonating with those familiar with EMDR techniques.

Persistent Sadness

Feeling persistently sad, empty or hopeless for an extended period.

Four emoticons with different expressions—happy, sad, neutral, and frowning—capture the essence of emotional dysregulation. Each has a simple design with dark features inside orange circles on a white background, making them perfect for illustrating the concept in therapy sessions.

Loss of Interest

Losing interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, such as hobbies, socializing or personal relationships.
Icon of a closed eye with two stylized "Z" letters above it, symbolizing sleep or rest and addressing sleep disturbances. The eye is outlined in dark purple, and the "Z" letters are in a light orange color.

Sleep Disturbances

Experiencing changes in sleep patterns, including insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness).

Emoji depicting a face with a sad expression and a single sweat drop on the forehead, often used to convey feelings of stress, anxiety, or slight embarrassment, as well as hints of fatigue or mild depression.

Fatigue & Lack of Energy

Feeling constantly tired, lacking energy or experiencing a decrease in physical and mental stamina.

Icon depicting a stylized luggage scale with a downward arrow inside a circle, suggesting a reduction in weight or quantity, akin to the decreased appetite often seen in depression.

Changes in Appetite or Weight

Experiencing significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite and eating habits.

A minimalist illustration of a human head in profile conveys concentration, with a large question mark seamlessly integrated into the top. The dark outline starkly contrasts the colorful question mark, set against a plain white background, suggesting introspection and clarity.

Difficulty Concentrating

Struggling with concentration, memory and making decisions.

Illustration of two stylized faces in profile facing each other, reflecting internal conflicts. One outline is orange, the other dark purple, all set against a calming white background—a visual metaphor for therapy and resolution.

Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness

Persistent feelings of guilt, self-blame, worthlessness or excessive self-criticism.

Icon of a tombstone with a cross, subtly reflecting themes of depression. The tombstone is outlined in dark purple, and the cross is in orange against a stark white background.

Death & Suicidal Ideation

Having recurring thoughts of death, contemplating suicide or engaging in self-harming behaviors.

Different Therapeutic Approaches for Depression

Therapy is an essential component of treating depression. At Carley Counseling Services, we offer a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual:

CBT

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to depression. It focuses on replacing negative thoughts with more positive and adaptive ones, and developing effective coping strategies.

ACT

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT focuses on accepting negative emotions and thoughts while committing to values-based actions. It helps individuals create a meaningful life despite the presence of depression.

Illustration of a hand outlined in purple juggling three balls, symbolizing the delicate balance in Interpersonal Therapy. Two balls are purple, and one is orange, each with circular motion lines indicating movement.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

IPT focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and resolving conflicts that may contribute to depression. It helps individuals build a stronger support system and enhance their communication and problem-solving skills.

CBT

Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy explores underlying unconscious conflicts and unresolved issues that may contribute to depression. It aims to increase self-awareness, improve self-esteem and facilitate personal growth and insight.

ACT

Mindfulness-Based Therapies

Mindfulness-based therapies, such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), teach individuals to be present and non-judgmental, helping them manage depressive symptoms and reduce relapse rates.

Illustration of a person with long hair and a speech bubble shaped like a sun, featuring a smiling face. This uplifting image symbolizes supportive therapy, offering warmth and hope to those on their mental health journey.

Supportive Therapy

Supportive therapy provides a safe and empathetic space for individuals to express their feelings and experiences. It offers emotional support, validation and guidance during challenging times.

Why Therapy Can Help

Professional Guidance

Therapists are trained professionals who specialize in mental health and can provide guidance and support tailored to individual needs.

Emotional Support

Therapy offers a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals can express their emotions, fears and concerns without fear of being criticized or misunderstood.

Skill Development

Therapists equip individuals with coping mechanisms, problem-solving skills and strategies to manage depressive symptoms effectively.

Identifying Underlying Issues

Therapy helps individuals explore underlying causes of depression, such as past traumas, unresolved conflicts or negative thought patterns, leading to a deeper understanding and potential resolution of these issues.

Personal Growth

Through therapy, individuals can gain self-awareness, develop a stronger sense of self and foster personal growth, leading to improved overall well-being.

Building Support Networks

Therapy provides an opportunity to build a supportive therapeutic relationship and, in some cases, connect individuals with support groups or community resources.

Depression can be debilitating, but therapy offers hope, support and effective strategies for managing and overcoming depressive symptoms. At Carley Counseling Services, we are dedicated to helping individuals on their journey to recovery. Through evidence-based therapeutic approaches and personalized support, we aim to empower individuals to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives beyond depression. Remember, reaching out for help is a courageous step towards healing, and you don’t have to face depression alone.