DEPRESSION & MOOD DISORDERS.
There are several different types of mood disorders. Depression is the most common one, and often described as persistent low mood that is debilitating and can last several weeks. Depression can affect all aspects of one’s life—how one feels, acts and behaves. Not all people with depression will experience the same symptoms, and there are several good resources on signs and symptoms of depression (www.nimh.nih.gov; www.camh.ca).
If depression is the primary concern, your therapist will review your concerns and symptoms and provide a treatment plan. There are various therapies used to treat depression, and the severity of the symptoms will guide the treatment recommendations. The goal of therapy is to provide a safe environment to begin to discuss depression, to assist in diagnosis, and to provide treatment to alleviate the symptoms of depression. Your therapist may recommend consultation with your primary physician in order to discuss medication options.