We all feel low from time to time. But depression goes deeper than occasional sadness. It’s a mood disorder that affects how you think, feel and function. Let’s talk about what depression is, when to seek help and how cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can support you in feeling better.

What are the common signs of depression?

The common signs of depression are a low or numb mood that doesn’t lift, losing interest in things you used to enjoy, and changes in energy, sleep, appetite and concentration that last for weeks rather than days. Common signs include:

  • Feeling persistently sad or numb
  • Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Fatigue or low energy, even after rest
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty

Depression can look different in teens, adults and older adults, but in all cases, it deserves attention and support. Sometimes it’s just a matter of not feeling like yourself. You can read more about symptoms and causes from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).

When should you reach out for help?

Here’s a good rule of thumb: if your symptoms last more than two weeks and start interfering with your daily life, it’s time to talk to someone.

Early support makes a real difference. The longer depression goes unaddressed, the more deeply it can affect your relationships, school or work performance, and overall wellbeing. You do not need to know exactly what it is you’re seeking treatment for, and you don’t have to wait until every part of life is affected.

Depression often shows up around change: a new school year, a new job, a loss, a move or a busy season. If you or your child are struggling with a transition, you don’t have to push through it alone.

If you need help right now

If you are thinking about suicide or are worried about someone who may be, call or text 9-8-8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24 hours a day across Canada. If there is immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department. Please don’t wait for a reply to a contact form.

How does CBT help with depression?

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments for depression. At Sageview Health, CBT is one of the core approaches we use with clients of all ages.

CBT helps you:

  • Recognize negative thought patterns (like “I’m not good enough” or “Nothing will ever change”)
  • Challenge and reframe those thoughts with more balanced, helpful ones
  • Build coping skills and structure into your day
  • Reconnect with things that bring you meaning, energy and joy

Over time, CBT helps you become more aware of how your thoughts and behaviours affect your mood, and how to shift them for better emotional health. It is important to remember that part of the therapy process is applying the skills you learn outside of the treatment room.

CBT isn’t the only option. Our clinicians also use other evidence-based approaches such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), emotion focused therapy (EFT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Your clinician will develop a treatment plan and determine what modality of treatment to use based on the information collected during your initial sessions.

What to expect when you start therapy

During your initial sessions you will meet with your clinician to explore your current difficulties or concerns, relevant history, strengths and goals. This initial intake process usually takes one to two sessions but may vary by the individual and the concerns presented.

Therapy is a different experience for everyone, but most clients can expect to attend 4 to 16 sessions depending on their concerns. We generally recommend starting with weekly sessions. This can often shift to bi-weekly and/or monthly appointments as you progress.

Progress is not linear and will be a different experience for everyone. It’s normal to have good days and days that feel like a bit of a setback. It’s important to discuss what you feel is working and what’s not with your clinician.

Who will I see at Sageview Health?

Our team has:

  • Psychologists registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario
  • Psychotherapists registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
  • Social workers registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers

We often have a lower cost option with our practicum students, who work under the supervision of a registered psychologist or psychotherapist. If you feel more comfortable doing therapy in your first language, please let our client care team know at time of booking. We have clinicians available to provide services in English, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and Japanese.

Not sure what the titles mean? Read who can provide psychotherapy in Ontario.

Is therapy for depression covered by insurance?

Most extended health benefits plans in Ontario cover psychotherapy provided by psychologists, registered psychotherapists and/or social workers. Coverage varies depending on your plan, so check with your provider to confirm which designations are included. We direct bill 11 insurers, and if you are working with a specific amount of coverage, please discuss this with our client care team when booking.

Getting started at Sageview Health

You can meet with a clinician at our Meadowvale office in Mississauga, or by video through virtual therapy across Ontario as long as you are physically located in Ontario at the time of the appointment. Adults can book individual therapy in Mississauga, and children and teens are seen by our child and teen therapy team.

If something hasn’t felt right for a while, trust your gut. Reaching out for support is a brave step. Call our team at 905-814-8200 or submit a contact form, and one of our client care coordinators will help match you with a clinician who can help you understand the signs of depression you’ve noticed and when to seek help.