Suicide is a consequence of mental or physical illness. According to the World Health Organisation, one out of every hundred deaths occurs by suicide. Suicidal ideation includes an array of thoughts, behaviours and emotions all related to wanting to take one’s own life.

The hardest part about writing this article was coming up with a title that really captures the depth of the subject. I wouldn’t say that I was successful in doing so, but let me tell you what I meant.

“Look at the word responsibility – ‘response-ability’ – the ability to choose your response. Highly proactive people recognize that responsibility.” – Stephen Covey

Family issues, work stress, exam anxiety, the pressure of being accepted in society, the responsibility of being accepted by your friends, the anticipation of getting that job you wanted These are just a few of the reasons why people experience anxiety in their daily lives.

Depression is a mood disorder characterised by extreme sadness and despair. The symptoms of depression can differ from person to person. Fatigue, lethargy, difficulty concentrating, and loss of interest in one’s hobbies are just a few of the symptoms of depression.

The term ‘Need to Consult a Psychologist’ is one that is not often used. There is a hesitation associated with saying these words out loud. The stigma around the concept of mental health in our culture, along with the taboo of going to therapy, has gravely affected the way we cope with our problems.

A psychologist and a friend lay on the two ends of a spectrum. On one end, we have friends or peers who we surround ourselves with. They make up our support system, a shoulder to cry on.

Whether you are experiencing the emotion of depression, or a few sustaining symptoms, or whether you may have a diagnosable condition, you can benefit from mental health support form a professional.

Depression and Anxiety are the most commonly presented problems in my private practice since statistically they most commonly occur in the population.

Inspired by some of the very experienced Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapists and trainers- I often ask my clients, “What planet do you live on?” You most definitely guessed their response to this one – “Earth” all respond!

This snippet of insight was one that a client of mine achieved, mid-session while deep in conversation about our needs and boundaries. This is one of those conversations that recurs, exposing some new learnings and understandings every time we discuss it.

You’re probably tired of reading that “therapy is a process”. It is indeed a journey one embarks upon often with a therapist/ psychologist, whether it is in person, online.