Depression can trap you in an endless void of sadness, apathy, and despair. It can make simple tasks like getting out of bed seem insurmountably difficult. You may think things like, “Is life really worth living?” or “The future is hopeless anyway, so what’s the point?” If so, you are not alone. Depression affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the most common forms of mental illness. It causes loss of joy, diminished interest, changes in appetite/sleeping patterns, and negatively affects valued relationships. Suicidal thoughts and ideations are also commonly experienced in depressed individuals.
Depression often correlates with other co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, which makes it vital to get a professional assessment and diagnosis regarding your specific set of symptoms and needs. Reaching out for professional help is one of the most important decisions you can make. Counselors specialize in dealing with mental health conditions and can provide the guidance, support you need, and equip you with the tools necessary to work through your depression.
Providing a Safe Space
During counseling sessions, the therapy office is a safe space for you to disclose your emotions and experiences. Thoughts can become dark when stuck in the confines of depression, and counselors are aware of this daily battle. You do not have to soften your rough edges or act like you are okay. The therapeutic environment is a judgment-free zone where you can feel comfortable being yourself. Counselors are there to support you and encourage you through your depression journey. The relationship between counselor and client is characterized by unconditional acceptance and empathy, so you can feel at ease with all aspects of your depression and mental struggles. It doesn’t happen overnight, but it is worth investing your time.
Relaxation Techniques
Stress and anxiety can exacerbate the symptoms experienced with depression, so one aspect that counselors focus on in treatment is teaching techniques to help you unwind and relax. These techniques can include meditation, deep breathing, mindfulness, and
muscle relaxation. I always remind people that it is important to pause. Take a deep breath, look at the big picture, and realize that you are in control of you. Repeating affirmations in your head or imagining yourself in a place of serenity also helps. Go to a place in your mind where you feel happy and free. My imagined safe place is on a deserted beach where all I hear are the waves crashing against the shore and all I see is a bright blue sky and white sand. Give yourself permission to be creative and discover which techniques work best for your emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Reframing Thoughts
Counselors help people reframe negative thoughts that may be perpetuating depression. One way this is accomplished is through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques which focus on identifying and modifying negative self-talk and distorted thought patterns. This is a great way to improve both your mood and your self-esteem. Depressive thoughts can make you feel like you are trapped under a gray cloud of doom and darkness. By evaluating your thought life and removing the negativity that is exacerbating your depression, you are free to adopt a new and healthy mindset. During this course of therapy, it is also helpful to keep tabs on your thoughts and write them down so that you can pinpoint where they are originating from and what triggers them.
Next Steps
Depression can cause you to isolate yourself, but it is vital to seek guidance and support in your healing. At New Vision Counseling and Consulting, we are here to lead you through this process. We want to provide you with the support and encouragement that you need to become healthy again. We specialize in helping people from all walks of life and want you to feel valued at our practice. We have therapists who specialize in depression and they are ready to lead you through the darkness into your next season filled with more light and life. You do not have to battle your depression alone. If you are ready to design a personalized road map to life and vitality, call us at (405) 921-7776





















































































