The Devon Clinic

Tag: depression

  • Depression and the real kicker

    Depression and the real kicker

    As a clinical psychologist, I often meet people with depressive symptoms, low mood or diagnosed depression.

     

    I also meet people who, through medication or time, have beaten depression.

    Still, the one thing these two groups can often have in common is GUILT.

    Often guilty thoughts/feelings/beliefs are formed in depression and are about issues with some truth. For example, a depressed parent may feel guilt about their effect upon their children.

    The guilt is considered logical‚(What parent doesn’t feel some anxiety about their parenting?)

    But the depression makes the blame 100% terrible.
    As a result, in many of these people, the low mood is bad, but the guilt is worse.

    Once the mood lifts, through medication or time, the guilt remains.

    Guilt is a belief made of words or experience and remains unchallenged.
    It does not respond to medication, and it can withstand time.
    What To Do.

    Know it for what it is

    Unrealistic/overblown guilt formed in depression.

    Consider if you have developed a style of thinking that encourages guilt.
    Remember, just because I think it, it doesn’t mean it’s true.

    Challenge it.

    • Are my thoughts factual, or are they just my interpretations?
    • Am I jumping to negative conclusions?
    • How can I find out if my thoughts are actually true?
    • Is this situation as bad as I am making it out to be?
    • Would other people/(someone in particular) think the same way?
    • Will this matter in five days/weeks/months/years?
    • What can I do that will help me solve the problem?
    • Cognitive therapies are very helpful in dealing with guilt and can often provide long-term skills & benefits very quickly.

    On a broader note, other holistic therapies, such as massage, can produce a sense of well-being, pleasure and calm, which is often missing when feeling low.

    For more information or to contact Dr Kalmus by telephoning The Devon Clinic on 01803 500300

    Dr Ellis Kalmus BA(Hons) ClinPsyD, CPsychol, AFBPsS
    Clinical Psychologist

  • Stress Awareness Week 2020

     

    Managing your stress levels and mental health has never been so important as we battle our way through and out the other side of Covid-19. These new and often scary challenges are of major concern to organisations as well as individuals.

    International Stress Awareness week 2020 or #StressAwarenessWeek

     

    Is a week filled with articles, hashtags, personal stories, developments, reports and statistics highlighting the impact our mental health has upon our everyday living. It will provide new tools, diagnostic pathways for support and hopefully make you feel that you are not alone.

    Almost one in five adults, that’s almost 20%, are thought to have experienced some form of depression during the lockdown in June of this year. Compared to the period before (July 2019 to March 2020) when numbers were about one in ten.
    Stress and anxiety are described as the top two most common areas in which adults experience some form of depression.

    International Stress Awareness Week

    The development of the week came as an expansion of Stress Awareness Day founded in 1998. Ten years later, in 2018, the awareness week was created to approach stress from a preventative angle rather than a curative one.

    This year the event will address the following subjects;

    o People’s experiences with mental health challenges and what can be done to support them
    o How employers are responding to mental health issues and what can we learn from them
    o Campaign against mental health stigma
    o The importance of stress management professionals in alleviating stress with practical and proven reliance techniques
    o Further actions in light of the pandemic
    o Ensuring those suffering know where to seek support

    Talking Therapy ServiceDoing Our Bit

    Here at the clinic, we have been helping our community since we became a community interest company or CIC back in 2014. What this means is that instead of pocketing profits, we give them to the community. Over the years, we have done this through providing affordable, low-cost and free services.

    When the lockdown came, it put most of our practitioners at a loose end because they couldn’t see many of their clients. Instead of resting on our laurels, we decided to set up a free talking therapy service.

    In the beginning, people were hesitant to call but as soon as word got around the calls came in thick and fast. Our practitioners stepped up to the mark, never turning anyone away. For three months, we answered over 70 calls accumulating over 150 hours of FREE mental health support.
    Social prescribers have personally thanked us for reducing mental health waiting times. Our therapists have been commended for their telephone and video therapy sessions to such an extent that some clients have asked to be removed from waiting lists for mental health support.

    We didn’t Stop There

    Once we were able to return to The Devon Clinic in Hyde Road, we set about gaining funding to enable our practitioners to return to work and continue their vital community support work. After several rejected applications, we applied to the National Lottery. We were granted funding bt the Lottery Awards for All program to provide mental health support to the residents of Torbay adversely affected by Covid.
    We are proud to be in the position of being able to provide Six Funded Talking Therapy Sessions funded by the National Lottery Awards For All.

     

    You can find out more about our funded talking therapy sessions and how to apply HERE.

     

    To this day and in light of the recent nationwide restrictions, we will continue to provide where possible access to a reduced rate, part and fully funded talking therapy sessions for those adversely affected by Covid. Please contact us either by telephone 01803 500300, email reception@devonclinic.co.uk or by completing the form below.

     

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  • Mental Health Reports Double

     

    Adult Mental Health Doubles From 2019

    Twice as many adults in the UK are reporting symptoms of depression compared to last year according to the Office for National Statistics

    Before the pandemic, one in ten are said to have depressive symptoms. Now it is reported that one in five states symptoms associated with low mood and depression.

    The results come from a survey of some three and a half thousand adults over the past twelve months. Participants were asked a set of standardised questions used to assess depression. They were asked to think about the previous two weeks and mark on a scale (1-10) how often they experienced changes to behaviour including mood, enjoyment of activities, sleep, and appetite.

    The scoring results from June 2020 showed that 20% met the criteria for depression. Compared to the same month last year, a 50% increase.

    While the screening questionnaire is well known, it is important to remember that it is not a diagnostic tool but rather an indication of everyday depressive behaviours and feelings.

     

    Symptoms of Depression Rising Amid The Pandemic

    A small number, some 3.5%, saw some improvement in their symptoms since the outbreak. But over 13% surveyed developed symptoms that fell into the moderate to severe category of depression.

    People under 40, those with a disability, women and those who would struggle with an unexpected cost were found to be the groups most likely to show symptoms of low mood and depression.

    Laura, a 25-year-old from Torquay, has been experiencing worsening mental health over lockdown. She also manages a form of Chronic Fatigue called ME and lives alone in a flat with no outdoor space. Laura had been managing her severe depression before Coronavirus with face-to-face talking therapy and volunteering at a charity shop. Lockdown meant her therapy sessions ceased, so too did her voluntary job. The isolation and abandonment from her mental health team hurt the worst and left her feeling “the worst I’ve ever felt”.

    Pre-lockdown, her daily routine kept her busy and allowed her to process her thoughts. But at home and with no professional support, Laura had no one to talk her thoughts through with. “I had such dark and intrusive thoughts; I’ve never known such a dark depressive place.”

     

    Post-Lockdown Mental Health

    Head of the charity Mind, Stephen Buckley “It is important to remember that for the past six months most of us have found it more difficult than usual and that there is no ‘normal’ way to respond to an international pandemic. If you do notice changes to your thoughts, behaviours and feelings that affect your daily living talk to someone you trust or a professional.”

    Throughout the pandemic, The Devon Clinic has provided continuing support for the community. During the lockdown, a free telephone service was set up with direct access to our professional talking therapists. Many cited that our temporary service was the only access they had to mental health support during the lockdown.

    As the country continues to open up, and services slowly begin to work through the backlog of old and new caseloads, we continue to support our community’s mental health.  The Devon Clinic has a range of talking (and physical) therapies including counselling, psychology, cognitive behavioural therapy and hypnotherapy to support good mental health. We are proud providers of private, part and fully funded sessions allowing us to support Torbay’s mental and physical wellbeing.

    For more information on therapies provided, please click here

    To see our funded packages please refer to our home page

    or complete the form below.

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  • Depression Myths

    Whether you have dealt with some of life’s knockbacks or know of someone who has, you will understand that depression does not discriminate.

    It can hit you like a tonne of bricks for no reason or slowly creep in when you are going through a tough time. Regardless of the even, some 300 million worldwide are affected (World Health Organisation statistics). Despite this, many myths surround the condition, most of which are rather unhelpful.

    Counsellor and author, Lynn Crilly:

    “It’s a deep-rooted, debilitating and destructive mental illness that affects both the sufferers and their carers alike. ‘Facts’ are often quoted about depression that are myths, which can prevent people from getting to grips with and being able to understand depression.”

     

    Here are our top five misconceptions about depression:

    1. It is obvious when a person has depression

    Not true. Many if not most with depression, hide it, or try their best to. A person may become so good at concealing how they feel to such an extent that only the most alerted loved ones can see what truly hides behind the smiles. And this is where knowing a person well and knowing the difference between what is normal for them is vital. If they start to display out of character behaviours such as recklessness, staying up more/sleeping less, or changes to their eating habits, dig deeper to see if depression or another mental illness could be the cause.

    1. The only treatment is antidepressants

    Some see antidepressant medication as something to be feared and avoided due to side-effects and the potential to lead to addiction. Of course, these concerns shouldn’t be ignored, but it shouldn’t put a person off seeking medical help for their mental health.

    Lyn Crilly says the best person to advise on medication is your medical practitioner. However, this is not to say that all responsibility should be handed to them; the patient and those around them should have input where appropriate.

    Medication is only one line of treatment, and it not always the first nor always required. Talking therapies such as counselling, Hypnotherapy, CBT, and can be very effective treatments.

    1. It affects mainly women

    While the number of women known to be suffering from depression is higher than men, we also know that men are much less likely to seek support for their symptoms than their counterparts.

    The most shocking fact is the most significant cause of death among men under 50 is suicide. This clearly shows that men are suffering and they too need to be right at the centre of mental health conversations.

    The myth that “real men don’t get depression” must also stop. Far too many still believe mental illness is a sign of weakness, making it even more dangerous for both genders.

    1. The taboo no longer exists

    There’s no mistaking that mental health recognition has come a long way. Celebrities and Royal family members continue to campaign to break the stigma and change how we view those with mental health. Suddenly society became flooded with awareness and the conditions placed firmly under the spotlight. A real shift seems to have occurred; however, the battle is not over yet.

    People are still wary of admitting mental ill health for fear of judgement, exclusion and potential career risks. There are still plenty of misconceptions of what having and living with a mental illness is truly like.

     

    1. You cannot help those with depression

    Granted you can’t wave a wand and make depression disappear, but you can support someone with a mental health condition. Showing acceptance, understanding and compassion can make their journey easier to bear. Should they wish, you could aid them at appointments or accompany them during errands. Sometimes people just need a friendly face to be with them. These may seem like trivial activities, but they can make a huge difference.

    Professionals such as employers and teachers can play an important role in ensuring mental ill-health is treated the same as any physical illness.

     

    For information on we can support your mental health please contact us today on 01803 500300.

     

    Depression Myths

  • Depression And The Effects On Your Body

    Depression And The Effects On Your Body

    Depression is both a physical and psychological condition.

    Everyday tasks become difficult feats of endurance though people around you may not notice. Most think the only symptoms of depression is chronic sadness; they overlook the physiological symptoms.

    Here are a few signs that your body is warning you about your mental health:

     

    1. Fatigue

    We all feel burnt out sometimes, but if you feel inexplicably tired every day, this can be a sign of chronic depression. A study conducted by the National Medical Library of the United States found the most common symptom of major depressive disorder is fatigue.
    You may not notice the physical lack of energy or exhaustion. These symptoms tend to appear after you try to solve the issue mentally. The body begins to act, yet the situation has not been resolved. It is here that lies the discord between what you think and what you do.

    2. Pain

    Alongside depression, most experience pain and discomfort. Doctors confirm that spinal pain is the most common which can be seen through movement. Other generalised pain includes the neck, shoulders, back and joints. In many patients, this is due to unconscious breath-holding and muscle tensing.

    3. Trouble Sleeping

    Sleeping too much, too little, restless sleep, waking only for meals or tossing and turning can indicate problems with the mental state. It is advisable to see a specialist, especially if they persist for longer than two weeks.

    4. Digestive Problems

    Stomach problems are widespread in those with depression and anxiety. This is most clearly demonstrated from a young age as their abdominal pains are generally caused by issues surrounding peer pressure. Nausea, gut inflammation and diarrhoea can be provoked by depression, producing a wide array of digestive imbalances.

    5. Blurred Consciousness

    People who suffer from depression often report memory problems and an inability to concentrate. For healthy people experiencing brain fog, rest is enough to restore their functionality. If the condition lasts for an extended period and rest or sleep does not alleviate symptoms, then it could be a sign of a more serious problem and support should be sought.

    6. Cycle Changes

    Gynaecologists say many factors can affect the menstrual cycle. Depression can alter duration and increase pain. Studies have shown that menstruation can worsen symptoms of depression. 64% of women report feeling worse 5-10 days before their period.

    7. Diabetes

    People with diabetes have a high risk of developing depression. Those suffering from depression are at a higher than average risk of developing diabetes. Symptoms include an unhealthy attitude towards food and weight gain. This disease also impacts the immune system, which worsens the symptoms of depression and other related mental health conditions.
    Anxiety causes the release of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increases insulin release. This reduces the level of sugar in the blood, making the individual want to consume sweeter related foods.

    8. Headaches

    Depression affects neurotransmitters and neurohormones that regulate response to stress, inflammation, and body systems. Those with a permanent migraine are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from depression than the general population. Both migraine and depression have common roots in the brain, and they can develop due to environmental or genetic reasons.

     

    If you would like to book your consultation for just £10, please telephone us on 01803 500300 or complete the form below.

     

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  • Struggles to stay asleep can be draining in more than one way

    asleep

    If you struggle to stay asleep for the entire night you know how that can drain you both physically and mentally.

    Insomnia is not uncommon these days with many struggling to fall asleep -but there are ways you can get a restful night’s sleep. Some find that their issue is remaining asleep rather than going to sleep. If this sounds like you, we have some suggestions to combat those early hour awakenings.

    There are three recognised stages of sleep; deep, REM and light. Depending on when we experience each of these stages that result in us waking during those early hours.

    Deep sleep tends to be the first 1-3 hours of sleep, following this we enter REM or rapid eye movement, in which we enter a lighter sleep. Typically, REM sleep comes in 90-minute cycles, this means that you are more likely to wake up at the end of a cycle.

    Dr Neil, a sleep expert, says that natural sleep rhythms are to blame and that during REM stages we often find ourselves a lot more easily disturbed by our surroundings.

    It is also during this stage that the likes of birds chirping, a partner snoring, a phone vibrating or the bin men will launch us into consciousness-thus making the return to slumber the most difficult. Laying in bed feeling frustrated will not aid you back into the land of nod, and it is advised that you get up to distance yourself from your bed.

     

    “If you are still awake after 20 minutes, get up and do something like reading. When you are tired enough to sleep again, you will.” Dr Stanley

     

    It has been revealed that sharing a bed is the biggest disruption to sleep, followed closely by the light coming through the windows in summer.

    Using your screens in bed before sleep is a no-no due to the emitted blue light which affects the brain’s ability to switch off for the night.

    asleepIt is not advisable to check your phone if you wake during the night.

     

    Another key suggestion that has been proven to work is reducing the time spent in your bedroom, reserving this only for dressing and sleeping. This does also mean avoiding long lay-ins, watching television or reading the paper in bed.

    The more you associate your bedroom with sleep, the more your brain will recognise that when you are in there it is time to switch off for the night.

     

    If you or someone you know would like to discuss stress and sleeping problems please do get in touch with us.

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