Understanding Depression:
What it looks like, feels like, and how counselling can help
Article by Jayde Lecerf
Psychotherapist and Counsellor
Perth, Western Australia
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects how you think, feel and act. It is more than just a bad day or feeling a bit low and it can impact many aspects of your life and overall functioning.
What Does Depression Look Like?
Depression can show up in many ways and people can experience depression differently. Some of the common signs include:
- Ongoing feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Fatigue or a noticeable lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Trouble sleeping, or sleeping too much
- Feeling worthless, guilty, or like a burden to others
- Withdrawing from friends, family, and everyday activities
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
It’s important to know that depression isn’t always obvious. Some people continue to go to work and keep up with day-to-day activities, while feeling disconnected or numb inside.
What Does Depression Feel Like?
For many people, depression feels like being stuck in a fog; where everything seems heavier, slower, and harder than it should be. You might feel like you're moving through life on autopilot, going through the motions but feeling disconnected from meaning or joy.
You might experience feelings of helplessness or hopelessness. You may even experience feelings of anger or irritability. Common to depression is experiencing negative thoughts such as "things will never get better" or thinking "I am a failure."
How Can Counselling Help?
Counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore some of the issues that might be contributing to your depression. Therapy can help you identify patterns in your thoughts and behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, as well as offering tools to manage symptoms. Therapy can support you to reconnect with your strengths, values, and what is important to you.
If you would like more information, or to make an appointment please contact Jayde by:
Phone: 0419 430 836
Email: [email protected]
Jayde Lecerf
Social Worker (Mental Health)
Mount Lawley Counselling Centre
13 Alvan Street
Mt Lawley (Perth), WA 6050
About the Author - Jayde Lecerf
- Social Worker (Mental Health)
Jayde is an experienced and empathic therapist who provides client-focused counselling with a warm, strength-based approach. She creates a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental environment where individuals feel genuinely heard, understood, and respected. With a background in both psychology and social work, Jayde offers a holistic and flexible therapeutic style tailored to each client's unique needs.
For more information, please see Jayde Lecerf's profile page