Therapy for Depression: Yes, You Are Deserving by Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT
Individuals living with depression may not want to feel sad anymore, while at the same time, think that they are not deserving of feeling better. The desire to be free from depression, or experience less of it, conflicts with what they think they’re worthy of. This can influence many factors, such as when the individual goes to therapy, if at all. Here are some possible thoughts an individual living with depression might experience:
Does it even matter that much?
Do I matter that much?
Others don’t seem to care, why should I?
Others seem happy, I can’t imagine getting to that.
I feel lame for feeling this way.
I’ve felt this way for a while, what’s the use?
Do I deserve to feel better?
Things to consider:
The thoughts of unworthiness, doubt, and hopelessness are the depression seeping in.
The thoughts try to make you believe that you’re unworthy and try to rob you of hope.
It’s important to focus on the fact that you don’t want to feel this sad anymore, are tired of feeling tired, or are sick of feeling this sad AND that there are mental health professionals who can help you get to where you want to be.
There are different treatments, interventions, and skills that therapy can provide, which have been shown to help manage depression symptoms.
Therapy is a safe space and a good therapist will hear you and allow you to feel understood.
There are psychiatrists and nurse practitioners who are willing to meet with you to discuss if medication would be beneficial. There are providers who will take the time to meet you, answer your questions, and have a conversation that includes their opinion while taking into consideration your concerns about medication.
You don’t have to do this alone. If you are interested in receiving therapy with me, let’s schedule a free 15-minute phone consult.
(NOTE: This video was filmed when my practice was at a previous location. I am now located in Irvine, CA)
My office is located in Irvine, which is near Newport Beach, Orange, Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Tustin, Seal Beach, and beyond. I work with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Asian American & Pacific Islanders.
Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. The topics being discussed are meant as a self-help tool for you own use. It is not psychotherapy or counseling. This information is to be used based on your own judgment. If you need to speak with a professional, you should find one local to you and contact them directly.