
Depression
Depression is a common, serious medical condition that goes far beyond feelings of sadness or occasional low mood. It is characterised by a persistent sense of emptiness, hopelessness, or irritability that endures for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. People with depression may also experience a significant loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, and sometimes recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. These symptoms not only affect how someone feels but also alter the way they think, act, and interact with the world, often leading to substantial problems at work, school, and in relationships.
Hypnotherapy—especially the tailored, indirect approach developed by Milton Erickson—offers a gentle and deeply personal solution for those struggling with depression. Instead of relying on conscious effort or willpower alone, hypnotherapy makes use of the natural, relaxed state of trance to help individuals access their unconscious strengths, resources, and resilience. Through the therapist’s skilled use of metaphor, positive (indirect)suggestion, and non-judgmental guidance, clients are empowered to gently reframe negative thinking patterns, reduce self-criticism, and nurture a greater sense of hope and self-compassion. This process does not impose solutions but fosters meaningful change from within, helping people move beyond the weight of depression and rediscover purpose, confidence, and joy.