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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Should I seek help for my depression and bereavement?

    Related Topics
    Bereavement Depression Mental Health
    I am 25 years old. When I grew up, I never feel confident in others. Or in other words, I do not comfortable to trust others. I broke up with my ex badly two years ago. I suffered depression for few months. I think I have already to recover from it. But I found, I cannot trust anyone at all, even worse than past. I believe no one can accompany with me forever, and it might be better to stay alone forever.
    One year ago, my cat passed away. I feel sad deeply for two weeks. If I force myself not to think of it, I am fine. Once I remind my memory with the cat, I cannot stop crying. I feel guilty. I feel I am not entitled to happiness anymore.
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    Lucy Prieto

    Psychologist

    Our philosophy is to empower individuals by assisting them in discovering their own inner potentials and strengths without judgments, and viewing them as unique and … View Profile

    Would you seek out help for your diabetes, or your liver problems? The answer is yes!!!We need to understand that mental illness are real and that they are physical/mental conditions. Your brain is part of your body, and not an isolated entity which works on its own away from the rest of your body. What happens to your brain will have an impact on your body and vice-versa. Depression many times is a physical condition, which is based on an imbalance of the chemicals produced by your brain, therefore needing medical attention. On the other hand, your depression could be also based on cognitive functions which need to be re-adjusted or improved. In order to achieve the best possible outcome in treating your depression, it is recommended to seek medical attention (30-40% of the treatment) and psychological assistance (70-60% of the treatment). A mental disorder should never go untreated as, like physical illness, might worsen with time and not treatment. In order to achieve this advancement in regards to how we view mental disorders we need to look pass the stigma attached to this matter and understand the importance of treating them!! Lucy Prieto, Psychologist  

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  • Joan18

    HealthShare Member

    Could I make it this way… If it can be cope with myself, I would choose not to consult any psychologist. I would like to know, if my situation need to be talked to someone? Or could I get over by myself?

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  • Joan18

    HealthShare Member

    Could I make it this way… If it can be cope with myself, I would choose not to consult any psychologist. I would like to know, if my situation need to be talked to someone? Or could I get over by myself?

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    Lucy Prieto

    Psychologist

    Our philosophy is to empower individuals by assisting them in discovering their own inner potentials and strengths without judgments, and viewing them as unique and … View Profile

    I Joan, 
    I believe it would be extremely beneficial for you to seek help regarding your grief and loss issues. You have lost a number of important things in your life and you are not dealing with them but suppressing them; which long term will have an impact in the way you relate to other individuals. Lucy.

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    Michael Guy

    Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist

    I am a clinical and coaching psychologist (www.lifeaftertrauma.com.au) with over 15 years of professional experience. Recognized qualifications and lots of experience to give me skills … View Profile

    It sounds like you are “stuck”.  If your feelings are still intense one year after the passing of your cat then it may be time for therapy.  I understand you have had problems with trust and entering therapy will require that you trust a therapist.  I suggest thinking of your visit as an experiment and I hope you find someone you feel comfortable with. 

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    Nigel Bailey

    Counsellor, Psychotherapist

    I am a professional counsellor and psychotherapist with a special interest in mens' issues. In a competitive culture that celebrates winners and quickly discards those … View Profile

    Joan,
    I agree with Lucy. It would be a very good idea to have a preliminary discussion with a psychologist or therapist. I often see new clients for an initial assessment session; we then jointly decide if and how we might work together. It is important that clients understand that they need not immediately commit to lengthy and expensive treatment.

    I am particularly concerned that your sense of isolation and reluctance to share with others may prevent you from getting the day-today support you need from friends and colleagues. If you don't know where to find a suitable practitioner, I would suggest you ask for a referral and recommendation from your GP. Depression and bereavment can be tough to tackle alone; with the right program and the support of an expert, you will recover and stay well. Everyone is entitled to happiness.

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    Dr Teresa Wong

    GP (General Practitioner)

    I love medicine! My special interest areas are mental health, pain management, pediatrics and musculoskeletal injuries. Having said that there is no area in medicine … View Profile

    You absolutely should ask help sweetheart! You''re not alone. If you find the right GP they will walk with you on this journey and clarify a proper diagnosis. We can help you whether it's through medications, therapy or simply a listening ear. If youre suffering from a mood disorder life feels empty, lonely, disconnected and sad. Facing it with the right help can be like opening a doorway to an unimaginably better you. So don't give up until you find the right GP for you. If you want further expert help feel free to contact me. Best wishes..

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    Ralph Graham

    Counsellor

    Ralph Graham, Counsellor, Psychotherapist, helping those who are affected by:grief, loss, anxiety, phobias, panic attack.And those who have been traumatised by:crime, assault, sexual abuse and … View Profile

    The help of friends is golden when we are suffereing from loss and grief but well trained practitioners can make the difference between resolivng deep issues or having hem stay to nag us. And sometimes unhandled grief from the past can impact on more recent loss. So, yes professional assistance can be immensely helpful and may lead to some nagging emotionally painful things being resolved altogether.
    My best wishes,
    Ralph Graham

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