Depression is considered a mood disorder with one in eight Canadians indicating symptoms of depression.  One episode of depression doubles the possibility of a re occurrence (Statistics Canada - Mind Your Mind). 

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Depression is a difficult disorder to treat and manage.  It consists of symptoms that include isolation, fatigue, loss of interest in activities usually enjoyed, helplessness, hopelessness, suicidal ideation, etc.  It is a sympathetic nervous system state (freeze, faint) that removes an individual from connection with others, creating shut down, numbness, and isolation.  It is the most difficult state to generate change as it tends to increase disconnection from others the more often and longer it occurs.  Without connection, depression appears to worsen.   Depression may be an adaptive survival mechanism originating from an individual not being seen, heard, and understood resulting in a need to "press" down feelings.  The individual does not develop the necessary skills to express their feelings in a safe, open environment with a trusting human being.  Helping the individual process and release these experiences, learn to regulate their emotions and nervous system, and develop ongoing connections with supportive individuals will result in optimal outcomes.   

 

Outpatient treatment for depression allows the individual the time, space, and support within an intensive format to learn, manage, and heal for optimal brain health.