Depression Therapy

Is Everyday a Struggle? Do you feel as though you’re living in a fog, constantly feeling tired, uncertain, and down? Do you feel a persistent lack of energy? Do you have difficulty concentrating or making decisions?

Living with depression can be a lonely, isolating experience, often creating feelings of sadness and helplessness. Depression can present as persistent unhappiness or pessimism. It can also cause physical symptoms such as not being able to get out of bed, difficulty eating and/or sleeping, or harboring suicidal thoughts. While some people are more sensitive and susceptible to depression because of genetics, many individuals experience depressive symptoms during and after major life transitions, traumas, and significant losses. Regardless of the cause or severity of your depression, if you have been experiencing ongoing symptoms that are affecting your ability to function, depression treatment may be a necessary step for you.

Approximately 21 million adults have had at least one depressive episode (8.4% of all US adults) according to the National Institute on Mental Health. In addition to anxiety disorders, depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders in the country. During the past few years, the effects of Covid-19, the instability of the economy, environmental degradation, social and cultural issues have led to an increase in individuals experiencing depression. Additionally, our needed reliance on technology during the pandemic has created an increase in isolation. Once you have had a major depressive episode, the chances of it recurring are high. Sometimes depressive symptoms remit naturally, however, at times they continue and worsen.

In our initial treatment sessions, we will work together to identify the root cause and triggers of your depressive thoughts and feelings. Working collaboratively, we will discover how depression affects your life and develop a treatment plan focused on decreasing your symptoms. Regardless of the causes and severity of your symptoms, you can learn effective techniques to help yourself when depressive thoughts and feelings become overwhelming. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is a goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that takes a practical approach to problem solving. The goal of CBT is to change the patterns of thinking or behavior that causes your depressive symptoms. The CBT approach can help you to develop realistic ways to reconnect with yourself, loved ones and your community.

Seeking depression treatment can be life changing. Sometimes, everyone needs help. It takes a lot of courage and strength to reach out and begin your healing process. Please call me at (520) 326-5761 or email me at ssticken@live.com.