General Feedback from a Counsellor and a Doctor

I have recently spoken to a counsellor and a doctor in order to gain better insight when approaching someone who suffers from depression. As it was more of a discussion as opposed to an interview I will be recording the valid points below:

Counsellor:
  • (With regards to the current flyers that exist) I asked if people would take more interest if the flyers and leaflets were designed better in order to create an eye-catching piece of information as I believe it is something that needs to be brought to light. Her response "I see what you mean, I guess if it doesn't affect you, then there is no interest there unless you've had a subjective experience".
  • There is a big difference between experiencing spells of depression and being diagnosed with depression.
  • When asking for help, she found she was always approached by the person suffering from depression/symptoms rather than teachers or other fellow students.
  • The circumstances justify the feelings of depression.
  • There are various symptoms to look out for, the symptoms are generally the same across any type of depression.
  • Worth looking into how people experience anti-depressants as they have a place within the treatment. They are supposed to narrow the emotional band and help keep things on an even keel to make everyday life less of a challenge.
  • The experiences of anti-depressants differ depending on the individual.
  • They provide short-term counselling.
  • Usually the GP is approached, it is common to prescribe anti-depressants and a counsellor is usually recommended.
  • Clinical depression = the person becomes really ill with it.
  • There's definitely a place for goals and objectives, however depression involves a lack of motivation.
  • They NEED a structure.
  • Dorothy Rowe = Author who specialises in depression* (look up)
  • My particular client group generally present the moods and emotions related to depression, they are a complex range and factors could become obvious during life turbulence. It's only after the turbulence you can differentiate the depressed from the non-sufferers depending on whether they steady back down or get worse.
  • Year 11 onwards is generally where the turbulence begins.
  • Always a danger with people labelling themselves 'Depressed'.
  • Look up Biochemistry*
  • BACP Organisation.
  • Finds that talking therapies are the most successful.
Doctor:
  • Usually if someone is in a low mood for longer than 3 weeks, they are diagnosed with depression.
  • Before prescribing anti-depressants, the patient is usually suggested exercise, weight loss, talking therapies and computerised CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
  • Depending on the individual - Anti-depressants tries not to be the first option.
  • People generally approach the doctor when they are feeling low. (BUT WHAT ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO DON'T APPROACH)*
  • It is unusual to see children, however depression is most common from teenage years onwards.
  • No awareness campaigns thought of.
  • THERE WAS ALSO NO AWARENESS/ADVERTS REGARDING DEPRESSION WITHIN THIS DOCTORS SURGERY. WHERE ARE PEOPLE GETTING THIS INFORMATION THEY NEED?

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