Depression Therapy Services in Ontario
Serving Ottawa, Kingston, Belleville, Oshawa, Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, Kitchener, London, and All of Ontario
We all experience sadness, grief, irritability, and low energy at points throughout life, however, if symptoms persist for long periods of time with little to no relief and start to interfere with your ability to function in everyday life, it is worth seeking medical attention or therapy for a possibly depressive disorder. Common symptoms associated with depression are:
- Lethargy
- Loss in motivation
- Indecisiveness
- Lack of self-esteem
- Increased irritability
- Guilt
- Suicidal thoughts and/or intent
- Physical aches and pains
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety (often comorbid)
- Hopelessness
Treatment for Depression
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most common and recommended treatment for depressive disorders. It is a short-term treatment that allows you and your therapist to focus on unhelpful thinking styles that may be contributing to self-defeating thoughts and behaviours. Once these are identified, the therapist will help you to formulate more constructive ways of thinking to achieve a more balanced perspective which leads to improved self-esteem, mood, and overall outlook on life. CBT also focuses on establishing new and helpful behaviours through behavioural activation techniques. Such strategies may include:
- Eating healthy
- Staying active
- Practicing good sleep hygiene
- Assessing stress levels and using strategies to lower them
- Seeking prescribed medication
- Utilizing your support system
- Focusing on basic hygiene tasks
Of course, depression is a debilitating mental illness that requires patience, and a tailored approach as each client presents differently. The goal of CBT is to not only help you experience relief from depression but learn to manage depressive episodes more successfully on your own over time.
Depression and Suicide
Depression puts you at a significantly increased risk for suicide. If you are feeling hopeless and worthless as if it were easier if you just disappeared, it is important that you talk to someone. For immediate assistance, go to your local emergency department, call 911, or call a crisis center. Talking to someone for ongoing support is always helpful and can help you to see light at the end of the dark tunnel that you cannot seem to find your way out of. Therapy and a supportive therapist can help you with this.
Virtual Depression Therapy
Virtual depression therapy is an ideal option for those who struggle with social withdrawal and lack of motivation as you can come as you are to sessions from the comfort of your own home. Having a non-judgmental space to talk and process your struggle, along with learning CBT skills and implementing them, can help reestablish lost hope and gradually encourage you to thrive again.
Reach out today for a free consultation to understand if virtual depression therapy is right for you or visit our FAQ page for more information.
