Depression, or low mood

What is often referred to as depression, I prefer to call low, or depressed, mood. Sometimes, things that happen to us, whether an event such as the loss of a loved one or a long-running adversity such as living in a dysfunctional or abusive relationship or circumstances, can have a devastating impact on us. This impact could be described as emotional and psychological pain, or distress, or a grievous wound to our sense of who we are. When this happens, we often defend ourselves against this pain by avoiding whatever we perceive as threatening, withdrawing from society, becoming intensely self-preoccupied or going into complete shutdown. Common symptoms, or tell-tale signs, often associated with this state of affairs are, amongst others, loss of interest and enjoyment of activities, sleeplessness or excessive levels of sleepiness, a lack of energy, poor concentration, suicidal thoughts and feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness and guilt. Therapy provides a secure environment where the origin and meaning of a person’s psychological pain can be examined and steps explored that gradually counteract their negative experience of life.