Depression is estimated to affect approximately 15% of Australians and presents as an intense, persistent negative mood, often showing up as a loss of interest in enjoyable activities and a pervasive sense of hopelessness. It can range from mild to severe and can significantly impair functioning, sometimes leading to suicidal thoughts.
While depression is commonly viewed as a collection of symptoms, it is understood to stem from the unconscious process of ‘turning one’s anger inwards.’ This can lead to having chronic critical thoughts, not feeling good enough and beliefs of unworthiness.
At Toolbox Clinic, therapy that treats depression will focus on helping individuals recognise and confront this pattern of internalised anger, allowing them to tolerate their feelings at a greater capacity.
Once feelings can be tolerated at a greater capacity, depressive symptoms often alleviate and indivduals can experience a life free from self-punishment.
