The causes of depression can be many and varied - often complex interactions of genetic susceptibility (how we are born) with unhappy life experiences, such as broken relationships, parental bereavement in childhood etc. Sometimes medication is helpful to help pull people out of low mood states. However, often much can be achieved through better understanding of some of the underlying factors. For example, buried angry feelings can sometimes lie behind depression. Each case is different but, once better understood, bringing these factors to light can help lessen their effects. Sometimes these feelings have been buried so deeply it is a surprise to us how they can still be affecting us.

Depressive states are often maintained by cycles of negative thinking (Negative Automatic Thoughts) ('I am useless/unlovable/no-one would like the real me' etc). These patterns have often been set up in early life but, with help, they can be challenged. I would aim to address both the underlying causes of depression and the maintenance cycles. However, I also understand that depression can make it difficult to find the motivation to come for therapy, and that the process has to be supportive if you are to move forward.

You can find out more about depression on the BBC website:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/conditions/depression1.shtml

More detailed information is available from The Depression Alliance:
http://www.depressionalliance.org/

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