Depression and Mood Disorder Counselling
About Depression and Mood-Related Disorders
Depression and mood-related disorders affect how a person feels, thinks, and functions from day to day, often in ways that are hard to explain to others. You might notice a persistent sense of sadness, emptiness, or numbness; loss of interest in things you used to enjoy; or feeling exhausted even when you’re technically “resting.” These changes can make everyday tasks—getting out of bed, answering messages, focusing at work—feel disproportionately heavy, and can leave you wondering what’s wrong with you, even though what you’re experiencing is actually very common and treatable.
Mood difficulties rarely exist in isolation; they are often intertwined with stress, burnout, trauma, identity-related experiences, and real pressures around work, family, money, and health. Sometimes depression shows up quietly as irritability, withdrawal, or a sense of going through the motions; other times it can bring intense self-criticism, hopelessness, or thoughts about not wanting to be here at all. Counselling offers a space to slow down, name what’s happening, and understand the emotional, biological, and social pieces that are contributing to how you’re feeling.
Most importantly, depression and mood disorders are not personal failures or character flaws. They are complex conditions shaped by brain chemistry, life events, systemic factors, and personal history—and they respond to support. With the right combination of psychotherapy, skills, environment changes, and sometimes medication or other supports, many people see significant improvements in mood, functioning, and quality of life. Counselling focuses on building that pathway with you in a way that honours your culture, identity, and lived experience.
Type of Common Disorders
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
- Bipolar Disorders (Type I and II)
- Cyclothymic Disorder
- Mood disorder due to another medical condition or substances
Most Common Treatment Modalities
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)-informed approaches
- Mindfulness-based and acceptance-based therapies (e.g., MBSR, ACT)
- Interpersonal and relational therapies
- Integrated, holistic approaches
Suicide Helpline Information
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, feeling like you might harm yourself, or are in immediate crisis, please reach out for urgent support right away. Call your local emergency number (911 in most of Canada and the U.S.) or go to the nearest emergency department.
In Canada, you can also contact 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24/7 by phone or text, to speak with a trained responder who can offer immediate support and help you stay safe. If you are outside Canada, please contact your country’s suicide prevention hotline or local crisis line for immediate assistance.
Recommended Practitioner
- Farhat Shabbir RSW, MSW | fcounsellor4@gmail.com | Book an appointment
