.png)
Therapy for Depression in Decatur, GA, and online in FL
What is Depression?
So, what is depression actually and how do we get depression treatment?
​
Here is a quick video to learn more: Depression
​
Depression consists of a variety of symptoms that include:
depressed mood;
feeling guilty/worthless;
loss of interest/pleasure;
low energy; fatigue;
not sleeping or sleeping way too much;
being indecisive and
having difficulty concentrating.
​
Also, psychomotor agitation includes:
restlessness;
tapping;
sudden starting and ending tasks;
fidgeting;
pacing;
hand-wringing, and
fast-talking.
​
Also talking and moving slow, or not moving at all, staying in one spot for hours on end.
​
Depression can consist of feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt. Depression symptoms cause significant suffering in interpersonal relationships at home, school, or work.
​
You must have either a depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure along with four or more of the symptoms. That has persisted for at least two weeks then it is time to start depression treatment.
I'm still not sure if depression treatment is for me.
Still unsure? Let me tell you a story.
​
For the past month, Simone (they/them pronouns) felt like they have been dragging. Every action seemed to need so much effort. Simone, born in southern Georgia, had once loved the outdoors. Very active and athletic, Simone was always up for a good time, hiking, kayaking, and playing soccer.
​
Nowadays, Simone only left the house to go to work, which they dreaded. It had been the dream job, hard-fought and finally won. Now everything and everyone at the job irritated Simone.
Work colleagues would say Simone was killing it. Simone felt guilty all the time. Simone knew there were 5 or 6 projects coming due and they had not been able to concentrate or get any work done. Each day the work piled up and the deadlines got closer.
When in the office, Simone would be very fidgety. They would be pacing the halls. Their workspace was a hot mess. In meetings, Simone's speech was hyperverbal and pressured. Often peers would ask that they talk slower. Worried all the time, Simone did not sleep most nights. The intrusive thoughts ran through their mind like an unstoppable freight train.
"I am stuck; nothing is ever going to change, and I don’t deserve to be happy" were a few of the negative thoughts rushing through Simone’s mind. Preventing restorative sleep and increasing irritability the next day, the intrusive thoughts continued. Simone was tired of being tired but didn’t know what to do.
Popular culture often paints a picture of depression in extreme forms. So when our experience doesn’t mirror that, we struggle to name what is happening within us as depression. Pop culture often presents depression as being sad, in reality, it is so much more nuanced.
​
Depression can consist of physical pain, anger, to a lack of interest in almost everything. In pop culture, depression is usually triggered by a single event. Whereas in reality, depression can be chronic. It can feel like it has always been there and will always be there. On television and in movies, depression is often linked to a dramatic suicide attempt. The hero of the story then recuses the depressed person. In an instant, healing the depressive episode. Depression treatment is often shown in dull or negative light. So that the hero can be the savior and not the long hard work necessary in depression treatment.
Popular culture has misrepresented depression and depression treatment. For people struggling IRL with depression that may actually be dangerous.
Depression treatment is not just about thinking positively.
Depression treatment is not just affirmations in the mirror.
Depression treatment is not just about getting more sleep.
Depression treatment is being seen and heard.
Depression treatment is awareness, acceptance, and action.
Depression treatment is developing a solid foundation (eating, sleeping, and exercising).
Depression treatment is supportive, guided, and safe.
I am still not convinced that depression treatment is for me.
Still not convinced, let us continue the story,
In the conference room, awaiting the start of a meeting, Simone sat pensively at one end of the long oak table. Her thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Brianna, whose dynamic presence always seemed to lift the energy of any room she entered. Simone admired Brianna for her strength and vitality. Although not in the mood for interaction, Simone couldn't help but feel a bit uplifted by Brianna's arrival. Brianna chose a seat at the opposite end, her observant eyes quickly noting Simone's demeanor. "Are you okay? You seem a bit off today," Brianna inquired with genuine concern. Simone was about to reply when the room began to fill with other team members, postponing their conversation.
​
Later that day, Brianna visited Simone in her office, closing the door gently behind her. "I hope you don't mind me saying this, but I've noticed you've been a bit down. I've been there too, and I want to help if I can," Brianna began. Simone, surprised but open, nodded for Brianna to continue.
​
"Have you been finding it hard to sleep or concentrate? Do you feel constantly on edge?" Brianna asked with a gentle tone. Simone admitted that she had been struggling with these feelings. Brianna shared her own experience of overcoming depression with the help of therapy and explained how recognizing and accepting her symptoms was a crucial step towards healing. "I understand what you're going through, and I want to offer you the contact of my therapist. It's been a game-changer for me," Brianna offered kindly.
​
This story is a powerful reminder that reaching out for help and accepting it can lead to positive changes. Just like Simone found support in Brianna, it's important to remember that seeking help, whether it's through therapy or confiding in someone you trust, is a sign of strength. If you're experiencing similar feelings, consider reaching out to a professional. Taking that first step can be a significant move towards a happier, healthier life.