Depression Therapy

Depression Therapy – Ways out of mental exhaustion

What is depression?

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting people of all ages and social backgrounds. Depression is more than just a “bad phase”: It is a serious disturbance of emotional life, thinking, and physical well-being that can significantly impact daily life.

Typical symptoms of depression are:

• persistent depression, emptiness or numbness
• Loss of interest, withdrawal and reduced enjoyment of previous activities
• Exhaustion, sleep disorders, concentration problems
• Feelings of guilt, self-doubt, hopelessness
• physical complaints without a clear medical cause (e.g. pain, changes in appetite)
• Difficulty concentrating and difficulty making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide (please seek help immediately in this case)

Depression is treatable – the earlier therapy begins, the better the chances of improvement.

When does therapy make sense?

Psychotherapeutic treatment is recommended when depressive symptoms persist, worsen, or noticeably impair personal and social life. Even if the cause seems unclear or those affected feel “no longer like themselves,” therapy can help them regain orientation and stability.

Goals of depression therapy

• Relief of mental and physical symptoms
• Regaining joy of life, energy and inner balance
• Building self-care, self-esteem and coping skills
• Dealing with possible triggers and stressful life experiences
• Support in returning to everyday life, work or social relationships

How does the therapy work?

Therapy is individually tailored to your situation, symptoms, and life circumstances. Commonly used techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, emotion-focused methods, and elements of depth psychology. The therapeutic process is often divided into the following phases:

1. Initial consultation and assessment
   In a confidential conversation, we will clarify together what symptoms you are experiencing, how they have developed, and what stressors are currently playing a role. This isn’t about “labels,” but rather about gaining a better understanding of your inner world.
2. Therapy Planning and Goal Clarification
   Based on the diagnosis and your personal concerns, we formulate specific therapy goals, focusing on your wishes and priorities.
3. Therapeutic Work
   During the active therapy phase, we work on, among other things:

• changing stressful thought patterns
• dealing with feelings such as guilt, fear or inner emptiness
• the reactivation of positive experiences and interests
• dealing with biographical burdens
• Strengthening self-compassion and a sense of purpose in life
  As needed, exercises for self-awareness, relief, and structuring are integrated into daily life.

1. Stabilization and Relapse Prevention
   Towards the end of therapy, the focus is on consolidating what has been learned and developing long-term strategies for dealing with stress, crises, or recurring symptoms.

What happens after therapy?

After successful therapy, many sufferers report greater inner peace, clarity, and connection with themselves. They feel stronger in dealing with challenges and experience more confidence in everyday life.

Some people need longer therapeutic support, others only a limited number of sessions – what is important is that the approach suits you.

Important: Depression is not a weakness or a personal failure—it’s an illness that can affect anyone. Seeking help is a courageous and crucial step toward healing.

If you feel like you are suffering from depression, I would be happy to accompany you on your journey – with empathy, expertise and the shared conviction that change is possible.