Depression affects almost 15 million people in the United States each year. If you haven’t suffered from it yourself, it is likely that someone you care about has. It affects people in different ways, but here are some of the signs to look for:

• Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless

• Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy

• Appetite and weight changes (either increased or decreased)

• Difficulties sleeping or sleeping too much

• Feeling worthless or excessively guilty

• Fatigue, loss of energy, or irritability

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

The length and intensity of your depression might vary. For some, depression is relatively minor but manageable, either on your own or with professional help. For others it can be debilitating and life threatening.

The good news is that there are helpful and effective depression treatments for most cases. Psychotherapy has been shown to help reduce symptoms of depression through counseling. It can also help you get your life back on track. I would be happy to help you start that process. Together we will explore some of the psychological and historical roots of your depression and sadness. If I think that medication might be helpful in addition to psychotherapy for depression, I will let you know and refer you to someone I trust.

If you are looking for a calm and compassionate therapist in the Southfield, Birmingham, or Farmington Hills and surrounding areas please do contact me.