... major depression in the philippines: therapy and treatment ... (life coach, counselor, psychotherapist, psychologist, psychiatrist)

what causes depression during the holidays? gma's medical advisory program "pinoy md" wanted my take on the matter.

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from the depressed people who consult me at my clinic, here's my list of causes:

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(1) physical distance from loved ones (e.g., ofws)
(2) break-ups with partners
(3) ongoing conflict with partner
(4) family misunderstandings
(5) death of loved one
(6) illness of loved one or of self
(7) memories of bad experiences/ trauma which happened in past christmas holidays

(8) looking back at the year that passed and deeming it unfruitful or unproductive(9) financial hardship
(10) major depression

(11) seasonal affective disorder

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causes # 1-7 are "relational" in nature and are primarily managed through individual psychotherapy and relationship/ family counseling.

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causes # 8-9 are "pragmatic" in nature and are primarily managed through advice and coaching.

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cause # 10-11 are "biochemical" in nature and are primarily managed by anti-depressant treatment.