I have been suffering with depression off and on for the past 5 years. I am 21 years old and a biology student. I found that there are times where I am fine and satisfied with everything around me, then other times when I cant even bare to be in my own skin. These are the ones that concern me. I became terribly irritable and lethargic. Nothing brings up my mood. These depression cycles have been on and off and last no more than a month. I have come to have suicidal thoughts at one point. I have also suffered a panic attack. I've gone to seek help from my school therapist but all she did was further irritate me. I saw her twice, I think. I want to know how to get quick help?
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Answers
I'm afraid there is likely to be no quick help for depression. But "slow" help will be more long-lasting. You need a variety of strategies to help you understand your triggers and deal with the low times. Two sessions with a therapist will probably make little difference. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is short-term, however (maybe as little as ten sessions), and has a very promising track record. It means that you learn to understand the inner assumptions and thought patterns that lead to depression. You might ask your school counselor how you get could longer-term therapy (probably not with her, but elsewhere); she should know of local resources. You might also look at the book "The New Mood Therapy" by David Burns, which explains how to do Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy by yourself. Hope that helps -- best of luck.
Hi Bmarti8.
I agree with Mattie. There is no "quick-fix" kind of thing for depression. You may have to see someone other than your school therapist to get the help you need.
CBT is also very good to use, and it is important to get the help you need. It will take some time, but it will work out. You just have to let it work.
Best,
Clyde