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DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS

Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in life? At New Horizons, we understand the profound impact of depression. Our therapists utilize DBT-informed therapy to help you navigate depression, develop coping skills, and rediscover joy and meaning in your life.

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What is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It can affect how you feel, think, and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

Common symptoms of depression include:

  • Persistent sadness or low mood

  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

  • Changes in appetite or weight

  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)

  • Fatigue or loss of energy

  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

 

How DBT Can Help with Depression:

DBT skills can be particularly effective in addressing depression by:

  • Increasing Mindfulness: Learn to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, reducing the power of negative thoughts and increasing awareness of positive experiences.

  • Improving Distress Tolerance: Develop healthy coping mechanisms to navigate difficult emotions and challenging situations, reducing vulnerability to depressive episodes.

  • Regulating Emotions: Understand the factors contributing to your depression and develop skills to manage emotional reactivity, increase positive emotions, and cultivate a more balanced emotional state.

  • Enhancing Interpersonal Effectiveness: Improve communication skills, build stronger relationships, and seek support, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

 

DBT-Informed Therapy for Depression at New Horizons:

Our therapists integrate DBT skills and principles into individual therapy sessions, tailoring treatment to your specific needs and experiences with depression. We will help you:

  • Identify negative thought patterns: Recognize and challenge negative or distorted thoughts that contribute to your depression.

  • Develop coping strategies: Practice mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation skills to manage depressive symptoms.

  • Increase pleasant activities: Gradually re-engage in activities that bring you joy and satisfaction.

  • Build a support system: Strengthen relationships and connect with others who understand your experience.

  • Improve your quality of life: Reduce the impact of depression on your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

 

Next Steps:

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