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Depression

David James & Associates has developed programs aimed specifically at healing depression. But there are many types and degrees of depression, some individuals suffering from depression have suicidal thoughts, others do not. Depression is a serious medical condition that has emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms such as severe sadness that doesn't end, loss of interest in everyday activities that once held enjoyment, trouble concentrating, lack of energy, sleepiness, aches and pains, sudden change in appetite or weight and thoughts of suicide. 1 in 10 Canadians will suffer a bout of depression with women being more likely to suffer from depression than men. Depression can be hereditary. People that live alone, are divorced, suffer from chronic illness, have experienced trauma, are low income or suffer substance abuse are at risk of depression.

Assertive Behaviour Therapy

Assertive Behaviour allows a person to stand up for themselves without feeling guilt or anxiety, to be comfortable with expressing themselves honestly and to exercise their personal rights without taking away others' rights. Many people find it hard to be assertive because they do not believe they have the right, they are anxious or fearful of standing up for themselves or they lack the social skills to express themselves correctly. The more a person practices assertive responses the easier it becomes and the more confident and self assured the person becomes.

Counselling Unhealthy Boundaries

Boundaries are imaginary lines people draw around themselves that tell others their limits and how close they can get. Boundaries allow people to say "NO" firmly, and filter out harmful or negative beings. Examples of unhealthy boundaries are rescuing others, "stretching" ourselves thin by saying yes to time commitments that we don't have the time for because we felt guilty saying no and staying in an abusive situation to help the other person. The inability to set healthy boundaries can be the result of low self-esteem, lack of social skills or an exaggerated sense of responsibility.

Seasonal Affective Disorder - SAD

SAD is diagnosed when someone suffers clinical depression only during autumn and winter. Symptoms of SAD; increased sleepiness, lack of energy, increased carbohydrate craving and weight gain. The symptoms can be mistaken for depression. Up to 2 million people are believed to suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, it seems to be more prevalent in the northern countries because the winter days are shorter and therefore less sunlight is available. Light therapy is the most common treatment for depression caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Grief Counselling

Grief is a normal reaction to loss and change. The layers of grief are;

  • Numbness
  • Denial
  • Isolation
  • Anger
  • Sepression
  • and finally acceptance

The grieving process varies according to a persons personality and can take anywhere from months to 4 years or more. It is important to talk to someone if you feel that you are stuck in the depression stage of healing for an extended period of time. Remember to have patience with the healthy process of grief.

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