Depression - how Counselling can help and where to find support in Surrey
At my practice based in Surrey, Refresh Counselling & Psychotherapy, I often see clients struggling with depression and in this blog I take a closer look at depression and the benefits that can be obtained through counselling. I will also outline some places you can find depression counselling in Surrey.
In today's fast-paced and demanding world, struggling with depression can feel like an overwhelming battle. But the good news is that you don't have to face it alone. Counselling for depression can be a powerful source of emotional support, helping you to navigate your way out of the darkness, finding light at the end of the tunnel.
With the right guidance and therapeutic techniques, individually tailored to your needs, depression counselling can provide you with the tools and coping strategies you need to regain control of your life. It offers a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings, gain valuable insights, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself.
Through the emotional support counselling can provide, you can build resilience, process your emotions, and establish healthier coping mechanisms. Counselling for depression will help you identify and explore the possible root causes for your depression helping you to create positive changes in your life.
Understanding depression – What is it? and what are the impacts on mental health?
Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. Depression can have a significant impact on various aspects of your life, including your relationships, work, and overall well-being.
Living with depression can feel like an uphill battle, as it affects, not only, your mood but also your energy levels, concentration, and motivation. It can leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and unable to cope with life's challenges. Depression is not something that can be simply "snapped out of" or ignored. It requires professional intervention and support to overcome.
Professional help for depression – Why it’s important?
When it comes to depression, seeking professional help is crucial. Many individuals hesitate to reach out for support due to stigma, shame, or a belief that they can handle it on their own. However, depression is a serious mental health condition that requires specialised care. Waiting for depression to pass can make the symptoms and their impact worse.
Depression counselling provides a safe and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. A trained and experienced depression counsellor can help you navigate through the complexities of your emotions and provide you with the tools and strategies to manage your symptoms effectively.
Professional help not only offers a fresh perspective but also ensures that you receive evidence-based treatments tailored to your specific needs. Counsellors are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to guide you towards healing and recovery.
Depression Counselling – What’s involved?
Depression counselling, also known as talk therapy or psychotherapy, is a form of treatment that focuses on helping individuals cope with their depression. It involves working with a trained professional therapist who specialises in mental health and emotional well-being.
During counselling sessions, you will engage in open and honest conversations about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The counsellor will provide a non-judgmental space where you can explore the underlying causes of your depression and develop strategies to manage and overcome it.
Depression counselling can take various forms, including aspects of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy and person-centred therapy. The approach used will depend on your unique needs and preferences. For more information about these three main types of therapy please look at my earlier blog “Introducing Three Pillars of Psychotherapy”.
The Benefits of Depression Counselling - What’s in it for you?
Depression counselling offers a wide range of benefits for individuals. There are many ways that therapy can help you to take control of your life once more, including;
Emotional support: Depression counselling provides a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings and emotions without fear of being criticised or misunderstood. Your counsellor will offer empathy, understanding, and support throughout the process. You will be able to talk freely.
Insight and self-awareness: Counselling can help you gain valuable insights into the underlying causes of your depression. By exploring the root causes, which may include past trauma, unresolved conflict, or significant life changes, you can develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the factors contributing to your depression.
Coping strategies: Depression counselling equips you with coping strategies and tools to manage your symptoms effectively. Your counsellor will work with you to develop personalised strategies that fit your unique circumstances and needs. These may include mindfulness techniques, stress reduction exercises and lifestyle changes.
Improved relationships: Depression can strain relationships with those closest to you. Counselling can help you navigate these challenges and improve your communication skills, leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
Increased resilience: Through counselling, you can develop resilience and learn to bounce back from setbacks. You will gain the skills to cope with life's challenges and build a strong foundation for your mental well-being.
The Therapeutic Relationship - Finding the right counsellor for you
Finding the right depression counsellor is essential for a successful therapeutic journey. Here are some factors to consider when searching for a depression counsellor:
Qualifications and experience: Look for a counsellor who is registered with a recognised professional body. Additionally, consider their experience and expertise in working with individuals struggling with depression.
Approach and techniques: Different counsellors use various therapeutic approaches. Research the different approaches and determine which one resonates with you. It is important to find a counsellor whose approach aligns with your preferences and needs.
Compatibility: Building a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial for effective counselling. Consider whether you feel comfortable and safe with the counsellor during your initial consultation. Trust your instincts and choose someone with whom you have a good rapport. There is some evidence to suggest that the therapeutic relationship, the one you have with your counsellor, is the most influential part of the overall therapy.
Accessibility and availability: Consider the location, availability, and cost of the counsellor's services. Ensure that their schedule and fees align with your needs and budget.
Counselling for Depression - Taking the first step towards healing
Depression can be a debilitating and isolating experience, but you don't have to face it alone. Depression counselling offers a powerful source of emotional support that can help you regain control of your life and find happiness again.
By seeking professional help, you gain access to a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings, gain valuable insights, and develop coping strategies. Through counselling, you can explore the root causes of your depression, work towards positive changes, and build resilience.
Remember, you deserve support and healing. Take the first step towards reclaiming your happiness by discovering the power of emotional support through depression counselling. You don't have to face depression alone – help is available, and a brighter future awaits.
Where to find help and support – other agencies in offering depression counselling in Surrey
There are many places that offer depression counselling in Surrey. Below are some of the options available ranging from private counselling to low cost therapy and emergency helplines.
The Eaves Counselling & Psychology Ltd
The Eaves are a body of psychotherapists and counsellors working from offices in Guildford, Farnham, Haslemere and Godalming in Surrey. My own practice is located at the Guildford office.
theeaves.org.uk/practitioners/louise-medhurst/
www.theeaves.org.uk
Tel: 01483 917000
The Eaves, 3 Paris, Parklands, Railton Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 9JX
Catalyst
Catalyst offers wide ranging support, including counselling, for people struggling with mental health issues such as depression.
www.catalystsupport.org.uk
Tel: 01483 590150
14 Jenner Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 3PL
Mind Matters Surrey NHS
www.mindmattersnhs.org.uk
Urgent help number: 0800 915 4644 (24 hours)
Samaritans
A listening service to help you talk through your concerns, worries and troubles.
Tel: 116 123 (24 hours)
Sane
www.sane.org.uk
Provides specialist emotional support, guidance and information to anyone affected by mental ill-health.
Tel: 07984 967 708 and leave a message, giving your first name and a contact number and one of Sane's professionals or senior volunteers will call you back.