Depression can be a devastating and debilitating condition, far more than just feel sad or down. A combination of talking therapy and medication often works to improve symptoms of depression in most people, but sometimes a different approach is needed – DBT can teach new coping skills to help people with depression, when other approaches haven’t been effective.

At its worst, depression can be debilitating and can affect every aspect of our lives, Millions of people around the world suffer from depression, and many people live with depression and don’t seek treatment because of shame or stigma.

Depression is a mood disorder, and is generally characterised by the presence of extreme sadness, feelings of emptiness, irritability, and a lack of interest in things that you once enjoyed. You may also find you have problems concentrating, remembering things, and may even have physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches or chronic pain. Depressive disorders can also include thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Because depression makes us experience overwhelming feelings of sadness, despair, hopelessness or emotional pain, it can be challenging to get past the symptoms. The four components of DBT can help you to become more accepting of yourself and what has happened to you in your life, and can help motivate you make changes.

With the help of a therapist, DBT can help you to develop healthy coping skills, and help you manage painful emotions. Gradually, you will be able to improve unhealthy or damaging thoughts, so you can experience less intense or frequent bouts of depression. 10