Depression

Depression not only affects how you feel but also on how you think and behave. Untreated depression can go on to cause a variety of physical, social, occupational and relationship problems.

Depression affects nearly 1 in 6 adults in the UK. It can be triggered by a variety of things such as life changes, physical illness, loss etc – this is referred to as ‘reactive depression. Sometimes, however, there is no obvious cause – this is referred to an ‘endogenous depression’ and is thought to be caused by chemical imbalances in the brain.

There may be a genetic link but, as with many mental health problems, it is very hard to distinguish between whether nature or nurture is the influencing factor.

How do I know if I have depression?
    • Have you found little pleasure or interest in things you usually enjoy?
    • Have you been feeling down, hopeless and negative about the future?
    • Have you noticed changes in your sleep pattern?
    • Have you been feeling lacking in energy?
    • Have you noticed changes in your appetite?
    • Have you been feeling that you are a failure or have let your family down?
    • Have you have difficulties with concentration?
    • Have you been fidgety and restless or moving/ talking more slowly than usual?
  • Have you felt that life may not be worth living?

If you recognise some of these symptoms in yourself you may be suffering from a degree of depression that can be treated.

What can I do about this?

When you are depressed it feels like you are in a deep well which you will never get out of. However, even the most severe depression is treatable. If your depression is standing between you and the life you want to live, do not hesitate to ask for help. Your GP can discuss with you the options which are available through the NHS and may suggest that you try medication although this is always your choice.

Help for depression  is available at Silver Street Clinic who offer a variety of psychotherapeutic approaches including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. We offer an initial appointment within 10 days of referral (either by yourself or your GP) . This would take the form of a detailed assessment which involves the clinician asking questions about the problems you are experiencing now as well as taking a full history. After this assessment the clinician will discuss and agree an appropriate therapeutic plan for you.

 Specialist Clinicians:

Kate Tyler  Paula Appleton Julian Hayes Kevin Amazona Maria Garcia-Tejon Helen Watson Mags Aldridge Sue Thompson Laura Fulcher  Hannah Taylor-Murfet