with Christina Vlachopoulos
     
             
             
     
Article
Depression
Date Posted
13-08-2007

Depression affects millions of people of every colour, age and sex around the world and like any other serious medical condition needs to be treated.
. Sadness and disappointment are inevitable, common human experiences. However if the intensity of low mood and grief become permanent, it is obvious that the individual suffers from depression and needs help.
. Depression manifests with a combination of symptoms such as: low energy, despair, withdrawal, changes in sleep and eating patterns, loss of sex drive, lack of concentration, anxiety, negative thoughts about the future, low self esteem and often thoughts of suicide.
. Depression has multiple causes .Biological and psycho-social factors, physical illness, substance misuse and life events can trigger depression...
. According to the intensity and the type of depression, the treatment involves anti-depressants, psychotherapy or a combination of both which seems to be the most effective treatment.
. There are cases of depression which requires urgent attention and medication. However the pills are not the magic solution to every problem and unfortunately they can’t succeed in fighting every single case of depression.
. Medication can offer relief from the symptoms and improve the mood but it can’t increase self awareness or change human thought and behaviour.
. Psychotherapy treats and most importantly prevents depression,  helps the individual to understand the causes of unhappiness and enables him to learn how to deal with future problems and challenges.
In addition, psychotherapy helps people to discover their hidden potential and therefore lead a resourceful and balanced life.
. The good news is that depression is one of the most treatable conditions.
. The support of family and friends can play a crucial role in helping someone who is suffering a depression, by supporting him and motivating him to seek help on time
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Cyprus Gold`s psychotherapist Christina Vlachopoulos answers your questions on general lifestyle issues, love, sex and relationships.
If you have a problem or question for Christina email her on :
Christina reads and answers all letters but regrets she cannot enter into personal correspondence
   
         
         
         
         
         
         
         
         
         
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
Letters
     
The boy is mine...
“Recently I went to a house party and I met a gorgeous guy. He kept smiling and looking at me the whole time. I was attracted to him as well but I didn't have the chance to talk to him because he was with his girlfriend. The next day my friend told me that he asked about me and now is thinking to get in touch with him with the help of our common friend. I can’t stop thinking about him”
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You probably can’t stop thinking about him because he is out of reach. The best and easiest way to obsess is to know you can’t be with someone. I have no doubt you like him-probably a lot- but ask yourself a couple of questions.
How much do you know about the beautiful stranger? What if he has a habit of flirting and seducing women –women that are not his girlfriend…?
Would you like to be in his girlfriend’s shoes?
Chances are that he has problems with his relationship and he is not happy with her anymore. Then he needs to break up. Until then refrain from over fantasizing and rushing into situations that could turn sour for everybody.

Too soon?

“I am planning to go on a date with a guy that I met in a local bar. We have talked several times and we seem to click. He has invited me to his place to watch a movie and drink some wine. I don’t know what I should or I shouldn't do. Some of my friends think that sex on the first date is a no no. My best male mate says that for guys it doesn't really matter.”

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.I am not sure when it is too soon for you. However guys have the tendency to be over eager when it comes to sex.The earliest the better. (Preferably before paying for the popcorn at the movies!)Just be yourself and act naturally. Expect everything and nothing. Is up to you to decide if there is chemistry and you feel comfortable with him A successful first date or a fun evening does not necessarily include sex..