Therapy for Depression in Ireland
Are You…
Not feeling like yourself?
Struggling to feel connected in your everyday life?
Losing sight of your sense of purpose?
Feeling isolated, sad, or low-energy for weeks on end?
Ready to book your first online therapy session for Depression?
What is a sign of depression?
There are many depression signs, actually, and the presenting depression symptoms vary from person to person.
Depression is more than just having a few glum days. The symptoms of depression are consistent for three or more weeks. Sometimes it is difficult to pinpoint what depression is caused by — but it’s certainly on the rise, especially during a global pandemic.
Thankfully, there is a free online depression test provided by the National Health Service (NHS) that was developed by several doctors; though, a true diagnosis must come from a medical practitioner that understands the signs of depression, types of depression, and medicines for depression.
Symptoms gone untreated could push depression to mania. If you think you may be suffering from depression, find a depression counsellor now.
Common Symptoms of Depression
If you experience some of the following symptoms for three weeks or longer, talk to your doctor: Emptiness, hopelessness, irritability, loss of interest in life activities, sleep disturbances, low energy, fatigue, increased or decreased appetite, weight loss or gain, slow thinking, unexplained bodily pains. Keep in mind that the symptoms for anxiety and depression are very similar, and they both are successfully treated with therapy and even some of the same medications. Therefore, depression and anxiety are often diagnosed together.
Possible Causes of Depression
It’s difficult to provide an exhaustive list of depression causes — the possibilities are endless because each person experiences depression in different ways. It can come and go, peak at times, or drop at times. If you think you may have depression, it’s good to keep a symptoms tracker. This can help you pin-point possible causes and tackle these challenges with your therapist. However, some common examples are early losses, trauma, sudden life changes, or grief. Depression symptoms can also stem from other serious health issues, such as hypothyroidism, which would require medical attention.
Types of Depression
To fully understand your symptoms and the best way to treat them, your doctor will need as much information as possible. Depression types include: seasonal depression, situational depression, depression with anxiety, postnatal depression, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, clinical depression, psychotic depression, manic depression, alcoholism and depression, drug use and depression, and high functioning depression. Some types of depression can be treated with cognitive behavioural therapy while others may need a combination of therapy and depression medicines. Some may require in-patient care.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Depression is a mental health disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms. It affects a person's mood, thoughts, and overall functioning.
-
The Beck Depression Inventory (DBI) is a validated and replicable depression test of 21 items that is made up of self-reported ratings. When you see your therapist or psychiatrist, you may take this test or one of its shortened versions, also validated.
-
If you have a recent diagnosis, I am sure you are eager to learn how to get out of depression. Getting on a healthy diet and getting regular exercise helps with depression, but sometimes it takes more. Talk to an online therapist in the UK now.
-
The answer is chicken or egg or nature vs nurture; however, genetic studies have shown that, on average, 40% of those with depression have a close relative with the same disorder. Scientists believe the remaining 60% is caused by environmental factors.
-
The Ireland sickness benefit for depression can be as much as €200 payment per week. The Department of Social Protection manages applications and payments. Another option is if you qualify for invalidity pension for depression. The weekly payments are about the same as the disability allowance.
-
Common symptoms of depression include persistent sadness, lack of energy or motivation, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, loss of interest in activities, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It's important to note that symptoms may vary from person to person.
-
The duration of depression treatment can vary depending on the individual and the severity of symptoms. Some individuals may experience relief from symptoms within a few weeks or months of treatment, while others may require longer-term therapy. It's important to continue treatment as prescribed and work closely with a mental health professional to monitor progress.