Depression

Depression looks different for everyone, but common signs may include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness or emptiness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Low energy or fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Withdrawal from social activities
• Irritability or restlessness
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you recognise some of these symptoms in yourself or someone you care about, it may be time to seek support.

Depression is complex and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including:

• Family history of depression or other mental health conditions
• Stressful life events (such as relationship breakdowns, job loss, or bereavement)
• Ongoing health problems or chronic pain
• Hormonal or neurobiological changes
• Lack of social support or meaningful connections
• Personality factors such as high sensitivity or low self-esteem
• Unhelpful thinking patterns and coping strategies
• Sometimes, there may be no clear cause at all. That doesn’t make your experience any less real or valid.

The good news is that depression is treatable. At Seed Psychology, our experienced psychologists use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand and shift the thoughts, behaviours, and patterns that maintain depression.

CBT and other therapies can help you:

• Understand the underlying causes of your depression
• Learn effective coping and problem-solving strategies
• Reconnect with your values and sense of purpose
• Improve self-esteem and emotional resilience
• Regain a sense of control and hope for the future

In more severe cases, psychological treatment may be used alongside medication. Our psychologists can work collaboratively with your GP or psychiatrist to ensure coordinated care.