Everyone feels sad sometimes. It’s a normal part of human psychology.
But what if those feelings of sadness completely take over your life, making it difficult to accomplish everyday tasks and maintain emotional connections?

Depression is an illness and vastly different from normal feelings of sadness, grief or low energy. It can cause you to feel hopeless about the future. Understanding what depression is and what treatments are available is the first step in enjoying your life again.

I work with clients to address depression and other concerns in my three office locations – Burlington, Hamilton, and Stoney Creek, as well as online through Skype therapy.

Are There Different Types of Depression?

Like most psychological struggles, depression isn’t a one-size-fits-all term to describe a common experience. There are different types of depression. There are eight main types of depression:

1. Major Depression

Major depression is characterized by feeling depressed most of the time for most days of the week.

2. Bipolar Disorder

Also known as “manic depression”, this form of depression includes mood episodes that range from periods of high energy and low moods. Low moods involve symptoms of major depression.

3. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder occurs mostly during the winter months when the days are shorter and you get less sunlight. This form of depression usually goes away in the spring and summer but can still be
difficult to deal with.

4. Psychotic Depression

Psychotic depression involves having the symptoms of major depression along with psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions and paranoia.

5. Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Major depression experienced in the weeks and months after childbirth is referred to as postpartum depression is a common affliction among mothers.

6. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder occurs when women experience depression and other symptoms, such as mood swings, irritability, anxiety and fatigue, at the start of their menstrual cycle.

7. Situational Depression

When you have trouble managing a stressful event in your life, it’s possible to experience situational depression. These events can include a death in your family, a divorce or losing your job.

8. Atypical Depression

This type of depression is different from typical depression and is considered more of a “specifier” that describes a pattern of depressive symptoms.

When Should I Seek Help for Depression?

As soon as your symptoms of depression are causing problems with work, family and relationships, and you can’t seem to find a solution, it’s time to see a professional. Seeking help can help keep things from getting worse and allow you to return to living a fulfilling and happy life.

Treatment Methods for Depression

There tends to be a negative stigma that surrounds depression but there it is nothing to feel embarrassed or ashamed of. It is a common illness that affects people of all ages, genders and ethnicity. Through modern and effective attachment-based therapy, I can help you understand where your
depression is coming from and support you in facing your struggles and overcoming your challenges.

If you’re suffering from depression, please don’t wait another day. Let’s get in touch and start your path to healing.

Contact me today for more information! I have three convenient locations in Stoney Creek, Hamilton, and Burlington to best serve my clients. I also offer online counselling for those who cannot see me in person.