Midlothian, VA—Chesterfield Depression Counseling, Therapy
It’s easy to assume that you’re the only one suffering—that everyone else is living out their best lives while you fall behind. In reality, though, everyone suffers with something at some point or another. Everyone suffers individually and in their relationships. To be more specific, many struggle to find the proper work-life balance or a fulfilling career path. Many struggle to communicate their needs to their partner and work through the issues that plague their relationship. And many struggle to manage harmful mental illnesses, like depression, that their friends and family may or may not know about.
“Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.The best is yet to come.”—Zig Ziglar
Depression is the leading cause of disability in the US among individuals between the ages of 15 and 44. Additionally, depression is among the top 3 workplace issues in the US. In summary, depression can change life as you know it. In addition to adding to hindering your job, it can lead to unhealthy changes in your appetite, diet, and sleep schedule. It can cause feelings of guilt or worthlessness and alienate you from friends, family, and once beloved activities.
Fortunately, counseling proves effective in the treatment of depression and there is help at Thriveworks Midlothian in Chesterfield, VA. If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms and think it might be related to the development of depression, consider working with one of our depression counselors, psychologists, or therapists. They are eager to step in and assist you on your mental health journey.
How Do I Know If I’m Depressed?
There are many different kinds of depression: there’s major depression, minor depression, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, and many others. But the most common form is major depression. Symptoms of major depression include:
- Intense sadness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness
- Loss of interest in day to day life
- Major changes in diet, appetite
- Sleep problems like insomnia
- Loss of energy
- Difficulty focusing
- Diminished self-esteem
- Suicidal thoughts
Are you presenting any of these symptoms? Are you generally uninterested in day to day activities and failing to function well in important areas of life? If the answer is yes, meet with a mental health professional who is familiar with depression and treatment for the illness. A Chesterfield depression counselor at Thriveworks Midlothian fits the bill and can help.
Can Depression Counseling Help Me? How?
No two experiences in counseling are identical. Why? Because your counselor will base your sessions around your specific presentation of depression as well as your goals for treatment. They will ask you a few simple questions, like what symptoms you are experiencing and what you hope to accomplish to customize the most effective plan. That said, depression counseling often involves discussing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, of which are likely contributing to your depression. Your counselor will help you to change these habits and, in turn, change the very course of your life.
Additionally, you can expect your depression counselor to talk to you about care outside of the therapy room—as the work doesn’t stop when your weekly session is over. It’s important you engage in self-care, so as to stay on top of your mental and emotional health. This is all about taking the time to participate in activities that you enjoy and that benefit you. Examples include:
- Journaling
- Exercising
- Meditating
- Spending time outside
- Practicing mindfulness
- Spending time with a friend
If you aren’t interested in any of the self-care activities listed above, that’s okay. The key here is to find activities that you are interested in, that also benefit you in multiple capacities. If you aren’t sure what self-care activities might best benefit you, your counselor can help you explore and discover.
Schedule a Depression Counseling Session at Thriveworks Midlothian in Chesterfield
Do you feel depressed? Do you think that you could find value in working with a depression counselor? Consider working with a counselor, psychologist, or therapist at Thriveworks Midlothian in Chesterfield, VA. These professionals have the skills and experience you’re looking for. They know how to help individuals just like you navigate the challenges that come with depression, and they are eager to offer you this assistance. If you are ready to schedule an appointment or hear more about the opportunities at Thriveworks, just give us a call.
