Therapy for Depression
"Co-regulation is the beginning of self-regulation."
Common Symptoms of Depression
Depression affects how you think, feel, and function day to day. Symptoms can range from mild and situational to persistent and severe. Everyone's experience is unique, but many people notice a combination of the following:
Emotional and Cognitive Symptoms
Persistent sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness
Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Increased irritability, frustration, or mood swings
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Excessive guilt or self-blame
Racing negative thoughts or rumination
Low motivation or sense of disconnection from purpose
Feeling emotionally flat or numb
Physical and Behavioral Symptoms
Fatigue or loss of energy
Changes in sleep patterns - insomnia, early waking, or sleeping too much
Changes in appetite or weight (increase or decrease)
Slowed movements or speech, or feeling "keyed up" and restless
Chronic physical pain or unexplained aches
Headaches, digestive issues, or tension without clear medical cause
Reduced self-care or withdrawal from normal routines
Social and Relational Symptoms
Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
Feeling disconnected or unable to relate to others
Loss of patience, compassion, or tolerance in relationships
Difficulty expressing emotions or accepting support
Feeling like a burden to others
Existential and Psychological Symptoms
Feeling detached from meaning or joy in life
A sense that things will never improve
Emotional numbness or loss of identity
Spiritual emptiness or loss of connection to values
Critical Red-Flag Symptoms
(These require immediate professional or crisis support.)
Thoughts that life is not worth living
Suicidal thoughts, plans, or intent
Self-harm behaviors or urges