Many people experiencing the symptoms al depression might begin to wonder if there was something really wrong with then.  One typical fear is that they might be going crazy. Unfortunately, the reactions and comments from other people such as “Just get yourself together!” are not very helpful.

Although you might feel alone in your struggle against depressive moods, the reality is that many people experience these moods from time to time, or even regularly. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in every 4 persons experience significantly depressed mood at some time in their life.

Depression can affect any kind of person at any sage of their life. You may be an introvert or an extrovert, socially active or shy, youthful or elderly, male or female, wealthy or poor. Whatever your distinction, you can become depressed That means that any person you know is fair game So remember. you are not alone.

Depression is a word used in everyday language to describe a number of feelings, including sadness, frustration,  disappointment and sometimes lethargy. However, in clinical practice, the term ‘Depression or ‘Major Depression’ differs from these everyday ‘down’ periods in three main ways:

• Major Depression is more intense ‘
• Major Depression lasts longer (two weeks or more)
• Major Depression significantly interferes with effective day-to-day functioning

In this Programme, the word depression is referring to Major Depression or clinical depression.

This Programme is designed to provide you with some information about depression and suggested strategies for how you can manage your mood.  It is organised into modules that are designed to be worked through in sequence.  Although it is not necessary that you complete one module before going on to the next, this is recommended. Each module includes information, worksheets, and suggested exercises or activities.

Programme

Module 1: Overview of Depression. This module looks at the symptoms of depression, what causes depression, and provides information about psychotherapy for depression.

Module 2: Behavioural Strategies for Managing Depression. This module describes how to increase activity levels, particularly fun activities.

Module 3: The Thinking-Feeling Connection. This module describes automatic thoughts and explores how thoughts influence feelings.

Module 4: The ABC Analysis. This module explores how you can use a thought diary to monitor the unhelpful thoughts that can lead to how you feel about a particular situation. 

Module 5: Unhelpful Thinking Styles. This module describes a number of common unhelpful thinking styles that can lead to negative emotions.

Module 6: Detective Work and Disputation. Module 6 explores how you can examine and challenge unhelpful thoughts by expanding the thought diary described in Module 4.

Module 7: The End Result. This module describes how you can summarise how you have challenged unhelpful thoughts by producing a balanced thought.

Module 8: Core Beliefs. Core beliefs are often at the root of unhelpful thoughts that are particularly difficult to change. This module looks at core beliefs and how to change them.

Module 9: Self-Management. This final module describes how to maintain gains and continue the progress that has been made throughout the previous modules.  

What next?

If you think that I can help you, please contact me to arrange a screening. Then I can advise you what the best course of action for you is.

If you would like a free Clinical Assessment, please click HERE. An new window will open and an online form will appear. The instructions are at the top of the form. Click to submit and I will look at what you wrote. As the form is anonymous, you will need to either phone,sms or email me your Unique Reference Number.