Depression Counseling in Itasca, IL.

Feeling depressed is one of the hardest emotions to deal with--especially if you have been suffering with it for a long time. Know that there is always hope for feeling better. First, I will closely listen to your story, and assist you in identifying what is contributing to your depression. Then I will recommend helpful resources to use, and begin to equip you with skills that will improve your mood and foster a growing sense of well-being.

Research has shown that the most effective approach to depression is a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication (if appropriate). I provide compassionate support for the painful challenges of depression while teaching you to develop effective coping strategies including the ability to lessen negative thinking and increase their enjoyment of daily life. If you are taking or want to try anti-deprresants, I can help with medication management. I also help family members of those with depression manage the stress it causes them as well as learn to use effective approaches to support their relative.

Learn and understand the complicated nature of depression, the biology as well as the emotional impact. Develop ways to help you access your strengths again, and see the world differently,A person with depression can suffer major depressive episodes that last for at least 2 weeks. These episodes include a depressed mood and/or loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities. Additional symptoms may include the following: Increased irritability, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, agitation or restlessness, fatigue and loss of energy, trouble thinking, making decisions or concentrating, disturbed sleep, such as insomnia, changes in appetite or weight, thoughts of self harm.

I think that my most important technique is to assist individuals in recognizing that depression is a condition and is not a form of laziness; many individuals have expressed a sense of relief as others have encouraged them to "just get over it". I utilize a combination of support and encouragement, including discussions of successes and challenges. I strongly discourage the use of the word "should" and any judgmental language. In addition, I believe that there is no specific time table for recovery, and that each individual is unique in their recovery.

Depression can be debilitating. Dealing with loss of energy, difficulty concentrating, hopelessness, feeling worthless, low mood, and overall difficulty dealing with the day to day can be a symptom of depression. Through counseling I can help provide you relief from depression. I will help you identify ways your thinking is impacting your mood and offer your tools to help correct your thinking. I will also teach you new ideas/concepts that will help you make changes to your thinking and mood.

You don't have to keep being hurt by problems in your life. it's possible to get control of your life again- be happy and healthy. Mr. Edleman will focus on your strengths and emphasize the bright spots in your life. Even when you think there are none. you'd be surprised at how quickly you can go from " I can't go on," to " Life has meaning again".