Blog

What is depression?

People who suffer from depression experience persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness and loss of interest in the activities they used to enjoy. Some also can experience physical symptoms such as digestive problems and chronic pain. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)

What is anxiety?

According to (DSM-5), anxiety disorders include disorders that share features of excessive fear and anxiety and related behavioural disturbances. These disorders include separation anxiety disorder, selective mutism, specific phobia, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), panic disorder, agoraphobia, and generalized anxiety disorder.

People who experience anxiety and depression can worry and have irrational self-critical thoughts and most probably feel like that they have no control over their thought process. This can have a huge impact on their daily activities. If you feel sad, overwhelmingly down, and fatigued, you are not alone.

• Around one in eight Australians (13.1%) had an anxiety-related condition in 2017–18 – an increase from 11.2% in 2014–15.
• One in 10 people (10.4%) had depression or feelings of depression in 2017–18 – an increase from 8.9% in 2014–15.

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), National Health Survey 2017-2018

The possibility of developing depression along with an anxiety disorder or vice versa is high. People experiencing major depression can also suffer from severe or frequent anxiety attacks.

Treatment for depression

Understanding the circumstances that leads a person to develop anxiety and depression is important.

Evidence based treatment for depression and anxiety are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, relaxation exercise and exploring strategies to cope with challenging life circumstances that can have an impact on emotional wellbeing.

I have noticed that some clients are able to manage anxiety and depression with counselling and therapy. When the client’s depression is severe, their motivation and the low mood can affect their ability to follow through strategies discussed in the sessions. In these situations, taking an anti-depressant may assist with managing the symptoms, especially in the beginning of the intervention.

Reference

• Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), National Health Survey 2017-2018
• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)

If you are experiencing depression and anxiety, book an appointment with Jayani Jayatilake, Peaceful Mind Counselling.

Contact 0426 191 010 or send us a message.

A highly experienced Counsellor, Jayani Jayatilake has a Masters Degree in Social Work. Jayani believes that the client is an expert in his/her own situation and encourages clients to take an active role in their recovery by helping them to recognise and acknowledge their own strengths, resilience and resourcefulness in overcoming barriers to improve their quality of life.