I find it difficult to focus on daily tasks and make decisions - There's no joy in my life anymore!
I used to be confident in who I was and where I was headed but no longer - I feel hopeless!
I have no energy to do anything and when I do I mess up everything. I'm a failure!
My life has no purpose - I feel worthless!
What's wrong with me? I need help!
Is this what depression feels like?
We all feel sadness at some point in our lives. Sadness is a natural reaction to situations that cause emotional stress or pain. Sadness is temporary and dissolves with time. In this way, sadness differs from depression. Clinical depression is a longer-term mental illness. It impairs social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning. Left untreated, symptoms may last for a long time.
Common Symptoms of Depression
People often think that depression is easy to identify because it manifests itself as persistent sadness that never goes away. Symptoms don't always show up in one particular way and may manifest in several different ways. Our counselors have many years of experience helping people overcome severe depression. Depression affects everyone differently, but there are signs that may indicate whether someone has depression. Here are a few common symptoms of depression we've observed in our practice:
- Irritability, feeling restless in daily functioning, loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and daily activities
- Decreased energy or fatigue, feelings of guilt, feelings of worthlessness, or helplessness, difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making daily life decisions
- Appetite changes (weight gain or weight loss)
- Depressed mood swings, frequent crying
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
- Aches or pains (chronic pain), headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment
Different types of depression are classified by the severity of their symptoms. Mild depression can be treated effectively with counseling and in some cases with medication. Moderate depression along with a severe diagnosis requires both counseling and medication. When talking with a professional mental health specialist, be sure to include, if you have any history of depression.
Maybe You Feel Like Your Life Is Eroding With No Sight Of Hope
Maybe your form of depression has invaded what once was a wonderful life full of joy, laughter, and enjoyable activities. And now, your life doesn't resemble the person you were before. Depression has eroded any form of happiness you had left. You don't know how much more you can take. Your mind races with negative thoughts about how bad things will turn out and how the world would be a better place without you. Depression is real and it is an illness requiring professional mental health treatment.
Counseling Can Help You Overcome Depression
Although there isn't a quick fix to overcoming major depression the fact still remains, that treatment of depression is effective. The sooner you seek counseling, the quicker you'll see results. There are techniques that can help you identify and develop a positive approach to making the behavioral changes necessary to reduce and possibly eliminate your depressive symptoms. Our professional counselors will work with you in individual sessions to find solutions that fit into your lifestyle and meet your needs.
Our New Heights Therapists Are Here For You
Our depression counselors believe that healing comes from within and have worked with many patients with depression. We understand the challenges you face as you look to recover from this illness and will walk alongside you in this healing process. They use a variety of techniques to help you understand how you got here and why you're stuck.
Depression counseling is a place of safety where you can share your struggles and concerns with someone who genuinely cares about you. You'll find support, encouragement, and understanding. The goal of counseling is to help you learn coping skills so that you can live a happier life.
Counseling With New Heights Can Help
It may be difficult to believe at first, but you can definitely feel better. When you enter our Fort Walton Beach counseling office, you'll find yourself surrounded by caring professionals who want to help you get well. Our team understands that when feelings of depression overwhelm you, you need to talk to someone who knows what you're going through. That's why we're here for you! Counseling can and does help. if you're ready to take back what your depression has robbed you of then our expert counselors can help you get there.
Our Approach to Counseling at New Heights Counseling
As an Okaloosa county counseling practice, our therapists at New Heights believe counseling is able to provide lasting relief from depression. We have helped individuals just like you to get their lives back on track and find happiness again!
During your first visit, you and your counselor will discuss your goals, and different depression treatments to develop an individualized effective treatment plan. This means we'll tailor our services to suit your specific needs. It's important for you to be involved in your therapy sessions. Our depression counselors offer a wide variety of therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and interpersonal therapy. These therapies focus on changing the thought processes and behaviors associated with depression. A combination of therapy approaches is often used and what seems to be the most effective. Additionally, be sure to let your therapist know if you have already spoken to your primary doctor about the recommendation of prescription medications (antidepressant medication). Help is available to guide you toward a healthier life.
Understanding Psychotherapy
Take A Look At Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Why Choose Counseling With New Heights?
When you choose New Heights Counseling, you'll meet one of our mental health counselors whose focus is to make sure you feel comfortable and have a safe place to share your concerns. We know it can be difficult to ask for help when you need it most. That's why we offer a number of convenient ways to contact us for individual therapy. Whether you're looking for a Fort Walton Beach counseling office near you or you would rather chat with a therapist with online therapy, we've got you covered.
The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important aspects of any counseling session. It’s not just about talking, it’s about listening and understanding. Your counselor will listen without judgment and encourage you to explore your issues openly. Hope is something you can build together as you work toward a brighter future.
What's Stopping You From Starting Counseling?
I don't feel sad all the time, I must not be depressed.
I don't feel sad all the time, I must not be depressed.You might think that you're not depressed because you don't experience sadness every day. However, this isn't always true. Some people experience symptoms of depression even though they are not feeling sad. Other times, you may notice that you are experiencing some negative thought patterns or feelings of emotional distress, but you still don't consider yourself to be depressed. If you are having trouble distinguishing between normal emotions and depressive episodes, it could be helpful to speak with a mental health professional.
I lack the motivation to come to counseling in Fort Walton Beach, FL.
The struggle with motivation can be very frustrating. When you seek treatment for depression, you may feel like you should be doing more than you actually are. While it's important to do things that bring you joy, sometimes in difficult times, it's harder to muster up the energy to push yourself to get the necessary treatment you need. If you struggle with low motivation, you can take the first step by contacting us via phone or email. We're here to help you through this difficult period.
I don't even know if counseling will even help.
The truth is, there's no way to tell whether or not depression counseling will work until you try it. Even if you've had therapy before, there are many forms of treatment and therapists, so finding the right fit for you is worth the effort to secure a positive mental health outcome. We're here to walk you through the therapeutic process with the goal of improving your quality of life.
5 Myths About Depression
5 Myths About DepressionMYTH #1: It is not a real disorder.
FACT: Many people interpret depression as mere sadness or even a sign of weakness in a person. But in fact, depression is a complex mental health disorder. It has social, psychological, and biological origins, and it can be treated in a variety of ways.
MYTH #2: Men don't get this.
FACT: Both women and men experience depression. Men tend to be less open to talking about their feelings and symptoms therefore may be less likely to seek professional treatment.
MYTH #3: Everyone experiences this in the same way.
FACT: People can experience a wide range of psychological, emotional, and physical symptoms when struggling with depression; therefore, not everyone will experience the same symptoms.
MYTH #4: "You can simply "Snap out of it."
FACT: No one chooses to be depressed. Some people mistakenly believe they just need to think more positive thoughts or change their attitude. Depression is a medical condition in which your brain chemistry, function, and structure are negatively affected.
MYTH #5: Talking makes it worse.
FACT: Keeping depressive thoughts to yourself can be much more destructive than sharing them with others. Talking about depression can be therapeutic for the person experiencing it and may even alleviate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness.
Are You Ready To Start Your Counseling?
The staff and counselors at New Heights Counseling, located in Fort Walton Beach, FL., are ready to assist you with your depression counseling needs. Our intake team is available by phone (850) 757-3331, Monday-Friday 8 AM to 4 PM, or by email at info@Florida-counseling.com to answer any questions you have regarding our services. Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our qualified therapists today!
Appointment Schedule
Sunday Closed
Sunday ClosedMonday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Weekends by Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions About Depression
What is depression?
Depression can cause feelings of sadness and/ or a loss of interest in things you used to enjoy. It can make you feel tired most days and unable to concentrate. It is a medical illness that requires treatment. Treatment options include medications, psychotherapy, or both. A combination of treatments usually works best. If you are experiencing depression, talk to your doctor or mental health professional.
What causes depression?
Depression is caused by changes in the chemical balance in your brain. These changes affect how you function and how you feel. The exact cause of depression is unknown. However, there are many factors that contribute to depression including genetics, life events, and certain illnesses.
Are there different types of depression?
There are two main types of depression: Major Depressive Disorder and Dysthymic (Mild) Depression. Both of these conditions involve feeling sad or unhappy for longer than 2 weeks. They also differ in severity. People who suffer from major depression often experience severe symptoms such as fatigue, sleep problems, appetite changes, and suicidal thoughts. On the other hand, dysthymia is milder than major depression.
Is depression curable?
Yes. Depression has several effective treatments available. Most people respond well to medication alone or combined with therapy. A therapist helps people learn new ways of coping with their emotional issues and improves their overall quality of life.
How do I get help for depression?
Depression is a common mental health problem that affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. It can be difficult to know where to turn for help. To find a professional mental health specialist, I should look for a therapist who has experience treating depression. A good therapist will ask about my history with depression, what kinds of treatment I've tried, and if I am currently taking medications for it. They will also ask about the goals I want to achieve through treatment.
What counseling options are available?
Treatment for depression is very effective. Different techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), family systems therapy (FST), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and others. Each approach addresses specific aspects of depression.
How much does it cost for counseling?
Depending on their license, experience, and type of therapy offered, our therapists charge anywhere from $75-$200 per session. If you want to know more about our rates and coverage, click here: Rates & Insurance.
Begin Depression Treatment in Florida
You're tired of living with depression and want help. Trying to combat symptoms is exhausting. We're here to support you. We offer in-person sessions at our office located in Fort Walton Beach, FL., and through online therapy. We want to make starting therapy as easy as possible. To start your journey with therapy for depression, follow these steps:
- Reach out to New Heights Counseling. Call (850) 757-3331 or email us at: info@Florida-counseling.com
- Meet with one of our Depression Counselors
- Begin Your Healing Journey in Healing From Depression
Not ready for therapy yet? Read these blogs for advice on coping with depression.
Our counselors often write blogs related to depression because we specialize in treating depression. Here are just a few posts you might find useful!
Other Mental Health Services at New Heights Counseling
Depression treatment isn’t the only service we provide in our Fort Walton Beach, FL practice. We know that life is complicated and we understand you may be dealing with multiple issues at once. Our therapists at New Heights Counseling have a variety of specialties. We're able to provide a range of mental health services. We can do so from our offices in Fort Walton Beach or online from any location in Florida. Some of our specialties include anxiety counseling, EMDR counseling, trauma therapy, PTSD therapy, adolescent counseling, couples counseling, family counseling, military counseling, individual counseling, group counseling, and more! We're here to help.