Depression
Depression is more than just feeling sad, upset or going through a tough time. It is a common and serious mental health condition that can impact how you feel, think and function in your daily life.
What Is Depression?
Depression can also be known as major depressive disorder, whereby it interferes with your relationships, work and quality of life. It should not be seen as a sign of weakness or something that can be easily overcome; it requires the right support and treatment.
Symptoms of Depression
Symptoms can vary between different people, but some common ones include:
- Constant sadness, hopelessness and emptiness
- Loss of interest/pleasure in activities that the individual once enjoyed
- Fatigue or a decrease in energy
- Changes in weight/appetite
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Challenges in concentrating, thinking and making decisions
- Feeling worthless or having excessive guilt
- Restless and irritable
- Thoughts of death or suicide
For a diagnosis, symptoms should be present for at least two weeks with significant impairment and distress.
Depression In Children
- More irritability than sadness (may seem angry or easily frustrated)
- Changes in school performance (drop in grades, lack of focus)
- Physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches without a medical cause
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Increased sensitivity to rejection or criticism
- Clinginess, worry, or fearfulness
The key difference for adults is that children may not always verbalise sadness. Instead, they show it through behaviour changes, somatic complaints, or irritability. Adults are more likely to express overt sadness or guilt.
Sadness VS Depression
Sadness | Depression |
|---|---|
Temporary emotional state | Persistent mood disorder |
Does not significantly impair functioning | Interferes with daily life |
Triggered by specific events | May not have a clear cause |
Resolves over time | Treatment and support is required |
Anxiety VS Depression
Anxiety | Depression |
|---|---|
Excessive worry and fear | Persistent sadness and loss of interest |
Physical Symptoms: Restlessness, rapid heartbeat | Physical Symptoms: Fatigue, changes in appetite |
Future-oriented concerns | Past or present-oriented concerns |
Avoidance behaviours | Withdrawal from activities |
Causes Of Depression
1. Biological Factors
Depression can run in families, suggesting a potential genetic predisposition. Additionally, chemical imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine can play a significant role. Moreover, hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, thyroid issues, puberty or menopause, can contribute to the development of depression.
2. Environmental Factors
Chronic stress can result from things like financial struggles, relationship conflicts, or intensive work environments, and can trigger depression. Additionally, experiencing major life transitions, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss, can also contribute. A lack of social support or prolonged isolation can worsen feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
3. Medical Conditions
Some chronic illnesses like cancer, heart disease and diabetes have been linked to higher rates of depression, possibly due to the physical and emotional impact they can have. Moreover, some medications, such as blood pressure drugs or hormonal treatments, can have side effects similar to the symptoms of depression.
How To Cope With Depression?
- Seek Professional Help
Talk to a mental health professional about treatment options like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). - Medication
Antidepressants may help balance brain chemicals. Always review the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. - Lifestyle Changes
Stay active, eat well, keep a regular sleep schedule, and avoid alcohol or recreational drugs (CDC). - Social Support
Stay connected with trusted friends, family, or support groups. - Mindfulness and Relaxation
Practice meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or any activity that helps you relax.
When To Seek Help?
- If you feel the symptoms associated with depression (fatigue, hopelessness, thoughts of death, etc) for over two weeks
- It is impacting your daily functioning (work, relationships, school)
- Distancing from loved ones
- Using substances to cope (e.g. alcohol, drugs)
- You have thoughts of self-harm or suicide
You do not need to have these symptoms to seek support. You are always welcome to speak with a clinician, regardless of how long or significant these feelings have been. Seeking help early can help prevent your symptoms from worsening.
How Can Us Help You?
Experienced Therapists
Our processes and quality assurance is led by Dr.Emma Waddington, a UK-trained senior clinician psychologist and Founder of Us Therapy, with over 20+ years of experience in helping individuals in Singapore.
Holistic & Personalised Approach
Our clinicians draw from various therapeutic models to create a holistic approach. At Us, we have seen hundreds of clients and we recognise that each individual is unique. Our approach is tailored to you but always includes customised treatment plans and integrative techniques.
Thorough Assessment
At Us, we pride ourselves on our comprehensive assessment processes. We will undergo a thorough assessment process with you in your first sessions before we come up with a plan for your therapy.
Our Therapists
Therapy Approaches
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps you identify and challenge your negative thoughts and behaviours to improve your mood and functioning.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
A focus on improving relationship skills and discussing and addressing interpersonal issues that can trigger or maintain depression
Psychodynamic Therapy
A therapy approach that explores unconscious conflicts and past experiences to help individuals comprehend and address underlying emotional struggles that contribute to depression.
What To Expect
Treatment for depression will significantly depend on the individual. It can include:
- Therapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), or Psychodynamic Therapy
- Lifestyle support: Sleep care, exercise, nutrition, social support
- Medication & Collaborative Care: Antidepressants (alongside therapy). Please note that Us Therapy does not provide prescriptions and medication. You will have to seek guidance from a psychiatrist. However, we are happy to work along with your psychiatrist, GPs and anyone else aiding your care to provide the best treatment plan for you.
Initial Consultation – A Space to Be Heard
The first session is all about getting to know you. It is a conversation—one where you can share what is been on your mind, what has been feeling difficult, and what you would like support with. Your therapist will ask questions about your background, experiences, and goals, but there is no pressure to answer any questions—just a safe space to begin.
Questionnaires & Onboarding Surveys – Understanding the Full Picture
To help tailor therapy to your needs, you may be asked to fill out some brief questionnaires before or after your first session. These can give insight into things like mood, stress levels, relationship patterns, or coping strategies. They are not tests—just tools to help your therapist understand how best to support you.
Individual Therapy Sessions – Your Journey at Your Own Pace
Each session is a step forward in your journey. Therapy is not just about talking—it is about discovering new ways to navigate life’s challenges, make sense of emotions, and feel like you are getting the most out of your life. Depending on your needs, sessions may focus on:
- Exploring patterns of thought and behavior
- Understanding past experiences and their impact on the present
- Developing practical coping tools
- Strengthening emotional resilience
Feedback Sessions – Reflecting and Adjusting
After the first few sessions (or after assessments), a feedback session provides space to reflect on how therapy is going. This is a chance to talk about what has been helpful, what you would like more of, and how therapy can continue to best serve you.
Intervention – The Heart of Therapy
Intervention is where meaningful change happens. Every therapy journey is unique, and the approach will be shaped around what works best for you. Some common approaches include:
🌱 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helping to identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns, reduce anxiety, and develop healthier ways to cope and new patterns of behaviour.
🧠 Schema Therapy – Deep, transformational work to uncover long-standing patterns that might be keeping you stuck, often rooted in early life experiences.
💙 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Learning to handle difficult emotions with self-compassion and move towards what truly matters in life.
🌊 Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A powerful approach for healing trauma and distressing memories, helping the brain reprocess them in a way that feels less overwhelming.
🧘 Mindfulness-Based Approaches – Building self-awareness, grounding techniques, and ways to manage stress and emotions with greater ease.
Recovery takes time, but many people see significant improvements within a few weeks to months.
Fees
Individual Counselling Rates
Clinician type
Fees and Duration
Clinic Founder
$310
Principal Psychologist
$290
Senior Clinical Psychologist
$262
Educational Psychologist
$262
Clinical Psychologist
$236
Counsellor
$170
Expressive Arts Therapist
$170
Associate Psychologist
$130
Phone calls / Emails
Clinicians rate pro-rata (10 Mins)
FAQs About Depression
What are 5 coping skills for depression?
Exercising, journaling, talking to someone, setting small goals, and practising mindfulness.
How do I know if I am depressed?
Some signs include fatigue, persistent sadness, loss of interest, and changes in appetite and/or sleep. Consider seeing a professional for a proper diagnosis.
Can I live a normal life with depression?
Yes, of course! With the right support and coping strategies, many lead fulfilling lives.
Is depression the same as feeling sad?
No, sadness is seen as temporary, whereas depression is intense, long-lasting and significantly impairs functioning.
Can I still work/go to school with depression?
Yes! Many with depression go to school and/or work. However, if your symptoms are severe, your care team may suggest adjustments, like fewer hours or time off, to aid your recovery.
Is depression curable?
While Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) cannot be fully cured, it can be managed overtime. With the correct support, the symptoms can be managed and help prevent the individual’s episodes in the future. Some people experience one episode, while others manage it as a chronic condition.