Common Difficulties
Depression
Everyone feels “a bit depressed” at times but know we do not need to seek treatment as this feeling probably passes in a day or two. When depression is more severe, the depressed mood will last longer and usually presents with other common symptoms. Symptoms might include loss of motivation and interest, increased irritability and anger, difficulty in concentrating, changes in sleep patterns and feelings of hopelessness. |
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Relationship difficulties
All relationships whether intimate or not can have their ups and downs and often cover a broad range of problems. Often we can get stuck in certain patterns of behaviour and find them difficult to get out of. Exploring these with a therapist (either on a one to one basis, or as a couple with the therapist acting as an intermediary) can be helpful. Therapists who are Relate trained in couples counselling and who have previously worked or are currently working with Relate in this field are available. |
Anxiety
Anxiety is the body’s normal response to stress or danger. However, it can become a problem if left to get out of control. When it does, simple tasks can feel extremely difficult. Anxiety affects the way we think and behave as well as having a physical effect. A common response to anxiety is avoidance and using safety behaviours. Although this can give temporary relief it keeps the anxiety cycle going. |
Bereavement or loss
Bereavement is the loss of someone or something that really matters both personally and emotionally. At some time in our lives we are all affected by grief, the emotional response of bereavement, whether through death, divorce, separation, redundancy or any other major loss. Whatever our loss, the emotional effects are the same and often come in waves as we deal with the different phases of grief. |
Low self-esteem
Low self-esteem means having a low opinion of yourself often leading to a lack of confidence in situations or not liking yourself. It can affect both personal and working relationships. Low self-esteem usually stems from adverse childhood experiences or a traumatic experience as an adult. Such experiences may be receiving excessive criticism, being bullied, having unrealistic expectations put upon us or perhaps just being different to the people around us. |
Work related stress
In today’s society, more and more pressures are being put upon us at work. Whilst in a ideal world organizations could reduce its demands on employees, it is probable that each of us as an individual contribute significantly to our stress and working on ourselves is therefore vital to reduce it’s affects. |
Rape or Abuse : emotional, physical or sexual
Clients who have suffered any of these issues can sometimes take years before they find the courage to seek help, often wrongly blaming themselves in some way for what may have happened. Due to the sensitive nature of this work, counselling usually takes place over a longer time frame allowing for the client to lead at a pace that feels comfortable to them. |
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Changing patterns of behaviour
People have, within themselves, the resources needed for personal change and growth. We all have certain patterns of behaviour which once recognised can be worked with, keeping the patterns we are happy with and changing the behaviour patterns that no longer fit. |
