Depression/Dysthymia Therapy & Treatment

We all have felt “down”, “sad”, or “low” at times. Feeling as if you are “not yourself” or sadness is a common reaction to certain negative life events such as losing your job, financial issues, experiencing a loss, ending a relationship. Yet, at other times feeling “blue” or intense sadness can be so overwhelming that it may interfere with your ability to function on a day-to-day basis. A low mood or depression can impact several areas of your life, such as work, school, family and social relations.

Depression is more than feeling “down” sometimes.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

A Depressive Episode is characterized by a period of at least two weeks or more during which you experience

• Depressed mood- feeling sad, down, and hopeless
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities- you do not experience any joy by participating in activities that you enjoyed before such as, socializing, reading, watching movies, exercising
• Feeling angry or irritated- you may be experiencing increased frustration over minor events or respond with anger towards others
• Change in appetite or weight- your appetite can either be significantly reduced or increased. There can be increased appetite or cravings for carbohydrates or sweet foods. Often the change in appetite is associated with weight loss or weight gain.
• Sleep disturbance- difficulties with sleep can vary from having difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night, difficulty returning to sleep, waking up too early or sleeping for significantly more hours than is typical for you.
• Psychomotor changes- you may be experiencing slowed speech, movement, thinking or have difficulty sitting still and pace frequently.
• Decreased energy- people often report feeling fatigue, tired, slowed down, sluggish often without having participated in a lot of activities.
• Sense of worthlessness or guilt- having negative thoughts about themselves or future, feeling guilty or ruminating about the past and often blaming oneself for situations and events
• Poor concentration- you can have difficulties staying focused on tasks, remembering things or making decisions.
• Thoughts about death- there may be thoughts about hurting yourself or suicide.

Dysthymia

Dysthymia can be considered as a “milder” but a chronic form for depression. Individuals often experience similar symptoms as described above for depression, however they are less severe and have been present for a few years. Often a low mood, lack of joy or low self-esteem may have become such a part of your day to day life that you may be thinking that “I’ve always felt this way”, “That’s just how I am”. It is not uncommon for you to be questioning that “will I ever be able to feel differently?”.

Treatment for Depression or Dysthymia

Highly effective treatments are available for improving mood and overcoming depression and dysthymia. Taking the first step towards seeking help for your mood difficulties can be challenging. It is important for you to know that psychological research has demonstrated that individuals participating in therapy sessions have been able to learn strategies to manage their mood, overcome their negative thoughts, participate in activities being avoided and engage in viewing their current situation in a more realistic manner.

Dr. Ahmed & associates provide their clients with tailored treatment for their low mood or depression to equip them with the skills and strategies necessary so that they can experience the joys of everyday life. Dr. Ahmed & associates believe that no two people are alike and they provide their clients with services that are customized based on the goals they are hoping to achieve.

The approach to psychological services by Dr. Ahmed & associates is grounded in research-based treatment such a Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), however, they often integrates elements from other therapeutic modalities, such as mindfulness, motivational interviewing, schema focused therapy and client focused therapy, based on their clients’ needs and preferences. Dr. Ahmed & associates provides a supportive, collaborative, and non-judgmental environment so that you can feel comfortable expressing your concerns.

Contact Dr. Ahmed & associates for a consultation and inquire further about the process.