Depression in Calgary: When Life Feels Heavy

Depression can feel like moving through thick fog — every step takes more effort than it should, and joy feels far away. It’s more than “feeling sad” or “having a bad day.” It’s a deep, persistent heaviness that can touch every part of life.

Some mornings, just getting out of bed feels like climbing a mountain. You may keep going because you have to — work, family, responsibilities — but inside, you feel disconnected and exhausted.

Recognizing Signs of Depression

Depression can look different from person to person. Common signs include:

  • Low energy or motivation that doesn’t improve with rest

  • Changes in sleep—sleeping too much or too little

  • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

  • Changes in appetite or weight

  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  • Persistent sadness or emotional numbness

You don’t need to experience all of these to be living with depression—even a few can have a big impact.

The Many Faces of Depression

Depression often convinces you to put off getting help—telling you it’s not “bad enough” or that you should be able to handle it on your own. But the longer it goes unaddressed, the more it can:

  • Disrupt relationships and social connections

  • Affect work or school performance

  • Lead to physical health issues

  • Deepen feelings of hopelessness

Support can interrupt this cycle before it becomes even harder to climb out.

How Therapy Can Help

At NU Psychology, we help teens and adults understand the root of their depression and develop tools to shift it. That may include:

  • Identifying thought patterns that keep you stuck

  • Building daily habits that support mood and energy

  • Reconnecting with meaning and purpose

  • Learning strategies for emotional regulation and self-compassion

Depression is not a personal failing. It’s a signal that your mind and body need care. With the right support, the fog can lift, and life can feel brighter again.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Sadness usually passes with time or after circumstances improve. Depression is more persistent and often affects multiple areas of life.

  • Mild episodes may lift naturally, but many people benefit from therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of supports.

  • Brain chemistry plays a role, but depression is also influenced by genetics, life experiences, environment, and stress.

  • Yes. Some people feel emotionally numb, irritable, or physically unwell instead of sad.

  • It can lead to withdrawal, communication difficulties, and misunderstandings — but awareness and support can help.

  • No. Burnout is caused by chronic stress and overwork, but symptoms can overlap. Sometimes burnout can trigger depression.

  • Yes. Teens can experience depression, and it may look like irritability, withdrawal, or changes in school performance.

  • At NU Psychology, you can book online or schedule a free match consultation to connect with the right therapist for your needs.

Looking For More Support?

For additional support tailored specifically for children please visit our sister company, Creative Sky Psychology.

To learn more about Growth Mindsets visit our blog on NU Talks…Adopting a Growth Mindset