It is worth noting that it may take a few sessions to build up the rapport and trust necessary for therapy to work.
Feeling sad from time to time is part of being human — but when the heaviness doesn’t lift, when motivation fades and even simple tasks feel overwhelming, it may be more than just “feeling down”.
you may be experiencing depression if
DEPRESSION is more than feeling sad.
When a person is depressed, it negatively affects how you feel, think, act, and perceive the world.
While depression can be a normal, natural reaction to legitimate negative life events, such as the grievous loss of loved ones, loss of heath, or loss of employment, The onset of depression can also happen with no discernable, obvious reasons, and the person just loses the capacity to experience pleasure.
Depending on the severity of the depressive symptoms, it can be truly debilitating when it affects basic daily functions such as keeping a job or maintaining social contact.
Decreased energy levels, or Feeling lethargic
A significant change in appetite
sleep disturbances
slowed movement or speech
Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, disillusioned
Irritability, impatience or agitation
Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making minor decisions
Forgetfulness
Negative thinking such as bleak thoughts about the future and of self
Suicidal ideation
Sleeping too little or too much
Decrease in levels of activities, even enjoyable ones
suicidal attempts
Develop Self-Awareness
Understand how depression shows up in your thoughts, emotions, and body. Begin to recognise patterns of self-criticism, avoidance, or emotional numbness — and what they’re trying to protect.
Cultivate Self-Compassion
Depression often thrives on shame. Counselling helps you soften harsh self-judgments, challenge internalised beliefs, and reconnect with your worth and humanity.
Build Coping Tools
Learn emotional regulation, grounding, and practical strategies to manage low mood and stress. Small steps — like behavioural activation and mindful awareness — can begin to lift the fog.
Reconnect With Meaning and Connection
Together, we’ll explore what truly matters to you. Healing from depression involves not only feeling better, but also rebuilding a sense of purpose, hope, and connection — within yourself and with others.
Depression can make it hard to reach out — but seeking support is a powerful act of courage
Depression is not a choice, so we cannot simply “cheer up” or “try harder” to feel better.
Depression is more than just feeling sad;
it’s a persistent condition that affects mood, thoughts, and even physical health.
Sadness is temporary, but depression can last weeks, months, or even years
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of strength, resilience, or success.
Many strong and accomplished people have been known to struggle with depression.
While some show visible signs, Many people with depression mask their emotions, appearing cheerful while struggling internally.
We offer counselling for depression with warmth, curiosity, and care — never judgment.
We’ll explore what’s been weighing you down at a pace that feels safe.
what to Expect at Gentle Mind
A safe, confidential environment
understand and shift unhelpful thinking patterns
tools to help you stay grounded in the present
understand and heal the parts of you carrying pain or shame
also know as major depressive disorder or clinical depression.
You might have this type if you feel depressed most of the time for most days of the week, and experience several typical symptoms such as feeling down, exhausted, gloomy and lacking motivation for at least two weeks. You may also have trouble sleeping and lose your appetite. Depending on how many symptoms a person has and how bad they are, major depressive disorder can be classified as mild, moderate or severe.
Major depression is the most common and severe type of depression.
also known as chronic depression and Formerly called “dysthymia,”
a long lasting form of depression with symptoms that lasts 2 years or longer.
People who have bipolar disorder experience alternating phases involving extreme mood swings. They have episodes of depression but they also go through periods marked
This type of depression includes depressive episodes that occur during pregnancy or in the first 12 months after delivery.
having negative feelings that are much stronger than in a short bout of the “baby blues”. The following are signs of postnatal depression:
The symptoms of postnatal depression are similar to other types of depression. One major difference is: Mothers often feel very guilty and worry about not being able to care properly for their baby. They might not be able to react to the child in a caring way.
Up to 15 out of 100 women will get depressed in the first three months after giving birth. The depression will be mild for some and more severe for others.
Findings from the Singapore National Youth Mental Health Study initiated in 2022 found that;
Of those aged 15 – 35 years, 14.9%, or about 1 in 7 youths, reported having severe or extremely severe symptoms of depression in the past week before the survey was conducted. Such symptoms include feeling sad, empty and a lack of interest and pleasure in activities, most of the time.
If your symptoms occur for most of the day, nearly every day, for more than two weeks, along with a clear impact to your day-to-day functioning (e.g., in work/school performance, personal relationships), it is advisable to speak to someone about it.
You May Benefit From Depression Counselling If…
You wake up feeling tired, even after rest
You feel disconnected from your emotions or relationships
You’re caught in loops of self-blame, guilt, or hopeless thoughts
You feel like you’re functioning on the surface but breaking inside
You want to understand yourself and feel alive again
Depression is very treatable. Many successfully manage occasional recurrences with ongoing care and self-management strategies, while others experience no relapses.
The causes of depression can be complex, and influenced by a combination of factors including biological, environmental & social, psychological and developmental:
Counselling for depression can benefit a wide range of people—from those experiencing early signs to those coping with severe or chronic depression. Therapy also helps with grief, adjustment, and stress management.
The duration of counselling can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. Some clients may achieve significant progress in a few sessions, while others may require more time. The counsellor will assess your situation during the initial consultation and discuss a recommended timeframe for your journey.
Regular sessions are typically scheduled, allowing for ongoing support and monitoring of progress.
It is worth noting that it may take a few sessions to build up the rapport and trust necessary for therapy to work.
A Safe Space – Diversity & Inclusivity
A safe, affirming space where people of all backgrounds—race, culture, gender, sexual orientation, age, and ability—are welcomed and celebrated.
You Are Our Priority – Autonomy & Empowerment
We respect your voice and collaborate with you, supporting your right to make decisions and shape your own path to healing.
Professional Team – Experienced and Compassionate Therapists
Our counsellors hold Master’s degrees in Counselling and are trained in evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR, and IFS. learn more about us
20 mins free consult
Find out if our counsellors are the right fit for you, or ask any questions you may have about the process of counselling.
The self-assessment tool provided for evaluating depression symptoms can offer insights into your experiences and symptoms, but they are intended for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you are experiencing significant distress, mental health challenges, or have concerns about your well-being, please seek guidance from a qualified mental health professional.
Your mental health is important.
if you or anyone you know are in need of immediate help
Samaritans of SingaporeInstitute of Mental Health