Counselling Requests on the Rise in Calgary—What Does This Mean?
Kathleen Maiman • October 24, 2019
Many Canadians are affected by mental health in some form. Whether it’s directly or indirectly through a family member, an estimated 1 in 5 people will experience a mental health problem.
Today, our lives are busier than they have ever been. Canadians are working longer, harder, and they are feeling the strain. The Internet, social media, and the pressure of daily life is taking its toll. Add to that the dangerous work-life balance that many Canadians have, and it’s clear why an increasing number of people are starting to seek help for their depression.
Depression is something that many people are aware of, but few understand how difficult it can be to cope with. In Calgary alone, counselling requests are up 14.5% this year. While 93% of those with mood or anxiety disorders take prescriptions, 20% haven’t received any type of formal counseling to help them cope.
“September alone, compared to last September, we saw a 47% increase in requests,” said Calgary Counselling Centre CEO Dr. Robbie Babins-Wagner.
“We don’t know if that’s just a blip or the beginning of a trend.”
Self-diagnosing depression is extremely challenging and best left to a professional. Even though you may think your symptoms are minor, they could be part of a larger problem that is affecting your wellbeing.
What Causes Depression?
Depression comes in a variety of forms. The most common causes of depression include:
- Abuse and Trauma. Individuals who were abused at some point in their life may experience depression related to their trauma.
- Specific Medications. Certain medications and the chemicals found within them can increase your chances of becoming depressed.
- Death or Loss. Losing a loved one, friend, or colleague does impact your mental health and can trigger depression.
- Genetics. Certain people are more likely to become depressed due to their genetic makeup.
- Large Milestones. Major events can trigger stress, anxiety, and depression as an individual may feel overwhelmed by the severity of the event.
- Substance Abuse. Drugs can increase your chances of becoming depressed even if they allow you to temporarily mask it.
Do You Think You Have Depression? Get Tested Today
Everyone experiences depression differently. One person may feel pessimistic and hopeless, while another turns to food as the answer. Depression can even affect your relationships with your significant other, family, and those who you are closest with.
What’s important is that you get tested, so you can better understand how depression is affecting your relationships and life.
The Calgary Counselling Centre offers a depression test
that people can anonymously use. The test can help you identify your symptoms—and provides you with useful resources that you can use to understand how depression is impacting you.
Love of Attraction also offers individual counseling
for anyone that is looking to understand and overcome past frustrations and pain.
Are you looking for something a little more hands-on? Our couples and singles retreats
are a great way for you to pursue positive change when it comes to depression and your relationships.
You’re not alone in your struggle, and counselling can make a difference in your life. Don’t be afraid to seek out help if you are struggling with depression. Get in touch with registered psychotherapist and certified Imago relationship therapist Kathleen Maiman today!
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