Depression Support and Counselling
The purpose of this chapter is to provide a guide to the signs and symptoms of a major depressive disorder. You can use the information in this chapter to help identify signs of depression which you may be experiencing and to help you take charge of your illness and formulate the best treatment plan.
A case study is provided that illustrates depression related to ‘job burn-out’; and the causes of depression are outlined, as well as a symptom checklist. The diagnostic criteria of depression are outlined as are various treatment modalities and the differences among various treatment providers.
Dealing With Depression
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Depression Therapy Ottawa
If you feel that you are having difficulty coping with your depression symptoms by yourself, then this is a good time to seek professional help. You can use professionals, not just for major problems, but as a sounding board for decisions that you want to make or to troubleshoot minor problems. Visiting a professional is particularly important if you have experienced a loss of control, or felt hopeless, or if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts.
People usually present themselves to their family physician first, as they already have a relationship with their doctor. Psychologists can certainly be contacted directly for depression counselling, but it is often useful to have a referral from your family doctor, or a friend. In either case, the physician will conduct or be asked to conduct an assessment to rule out physical causes of depression.
Read more about the author of this chapter and Gilmour psychologist, Dr. Peter Judge.