Depression Therapy in Edmonton
Learn about Depression
What is Depression?
Depression is more than occasional sadness — it’s a persistent and profound shift in mood, energy, and motivation that affects every area of life.
It’s one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide, yet it often goes misunderstood.
Depression is not a sign of weakness, laziness, or failure. It’s a real medical condition involving changes in brain chemistry, life experiences, and emotional resilience.
With proper treatment and support, individuals living with depression can heal, rediscover joy, and build meaningful, connected lives.
Types of Depression
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Persistent and intense symptoms lasting at least two weeks.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Long-term, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression linked to seasonal changes, often during the winter months.
Postpartum Depression: Depression following childbirth, affecting the mother’s ability to bond and care for herself or her baby.
Depression with Psychotic Features: Severe depression accompanied by hallucinations or delusions.
Each type has unique challenges and needs — and all deserve thoughtful, compassionate treatment.
Key Characteristics
Persistent Low Mood
Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, or numb most of the day, nearly every day.
Changes in Sleep
Insomnia, early morning awakening, or oversleeping.
Difficulty Concentrating
Trouble focusing, remembering details, or making decisions.
Loss of Interest or Pleasure
Little to no enjoyment in hobbies, socializing, or activities that once brought happiness.
Appetite or Weight Changes
Significant weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting.
Thoughts of Death or Suicide
In severe cases, recurring thoughts about death or self-harm.
Low Energy and Fatigue
Feeling drained, sluggish, or physically slowed down.
Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt
Harsh self-criticism or persistent feelings of inadequacy.
How Depression Evolves Over Time
Early Signs
Depression may begin subtly, showing up as irritability, loss of interest, or changes in energy levels.
Progression Without Treatment:
Left untreated, symptoms typically worsen, affecting work, relationships, and physical health. Isolation, substance use, or worsening hopelessness can occur.
Long-Term Course:
Some individuals experience recurrent episodes of depression throughout their lives. Others may have a single episode followed by full recovery.
Early support can prevent symptoms from deepening and can greatly improve long-term outcomes.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Depression involves:
Comprehensive Clinical Interviews: Exploring current and past symptoms, emotional patterns, family history, and medical factors.
Standardized Questionnaires: Tools like the PHQ-9 (for depression) or MDQ (Mood Disorder Questionnaire for bipolar symptoms) help assess severity and frequency.
Rule-Out Process: Separating mood disorders from other issues like anxiety disorders, trauma responses, or medical conditions (e.g., thyroid problems).
Diagnostic Criteria Includes
Symptoms present most of the day, nearly every day
Lasting at least two weeks
Causing significant distress or impairment in daily life
A sensitive, thorough assessment helps pave the way to the right treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy):
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps reframe negative thought patterns contributing to depression and mood instability.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationship skills and resolving interpersonal conflicts that impact mood.
Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores underlying emotional conflicts and unresolved past experiences.
Medication:
Antidepressants (for depression)
Lifestyle and Holistic Approaches:
Regular exercise (proven to boost mood)
Consistent sleep routines
Mindfulness practices and meditation
Reducing alcohol and substance use
Building a strong support network
Other Treatments for Severe Depression:
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): For treatment-resistant depression, under careful medical supervision.
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation): A non-invasive treatment using magnetic fields to stimulate brain areas involved in mood regulation.
Recovery from depression is absolutely possible — and often involves a combination of treatments tailored to each individual.
Strengths Often Associated with Depression
Surviving depression can lead to powerful personal growth:
Deep Empathy: An extraordinary ability to connect with and support others.
Emotional Intelligence: A nuanced understanding of complex emotions.
Resilience: Inner strength developed through overcoming adversity.
Creativity: Many individuals channel their emotional experiences into writing, art, music, or innovation.
Clarity on Priorities: A sharpened sense of what truly matters in life — relationships, authenticity, and self-care.
Living with and healing from a mood disorder can lead to greater compassion, purpose, and connection with others.
Our approach
at Crossroads Psychological & Wellness, we view depression through a lens of hope, understanding, and personalized care.
We know that depression can feel isolating, heavy, and endless — but you are not alone.
With a blend of evidence-based therapies, medication support if needed, and genuine compassion, we help you rediscover joy, purpose, and connection.
Your story matters.
Your healing is possible.
And we’re here to walk beside you every step of the way.
