Therapy Toronto Psychotherapy Definitions

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Depression

Depression: Depression is one of the most common reasons that people seek therapy.
It is a chronic 'down' mood that takes the lustre out of life, and includes feelings of worthlessness and incompetence, physical debility and fatigue, loss of libido, increased irritability, difficulty sleeping, lack of interest in life, poor appetite, increased anxiety, thoughts of suicide, and lack of hope.

Psychotherapy based on dialogue, 'talk therapy' has consistently proven to have the power to alleviate the feelings that often are called 'depressive'.

The roots of depression usually extend from childhood. Often depressed adults have suffered neglect, rejection, or abuse by their parents. In addition they frequently found themselves having to take care of a fragile or needy parent who could not take care of them or their siblings.

In adulthood these people find that they tend to work hard to be good but are never satisfied with their own efforts. The result can be chronic perfectionism, dissatisfaction, morbid introspection, emotional withdrawal from others. Their anger turns inward and takes its toll on their ability to experience happiness or joy in life with others.

Many depressed people feel that they cannot connect with other human beings in an intimate and meaningful way. Their lives are missing the warmth, affection, trust or support that they need. They feel empty, weak, helpless and despairing.

Recovering from depression usually depends on two factors: reaching insight into its causes and experiencing a reliable relationship, first with the therapist, and then with others.