For the Oppressed, Stressed, and Depressed—this shit’s hard
When the World Feels too Heavy: Support for the Oppressed and Stressed
These days, we are subject to a relentless deluge of systemic stressors. We exist within oppressive systems—racism, homophobia, transphobia, patriarchy, ableism, and others—that harm us individually and collectively, contaminating the air we all breathe (whether we realize it or not). Those living at the intersection of marginalized identities bear the brunt of this toxicity and may face greater risks for depression and anxiety. On top of that, we’re navigating climate anxiety, economic strain, political tension, pandemics, digital overload, and the persistent questions: What’s next? or What else could go wrong?
Being a human right now is tough. When times are hard and it feels like the world is pummeling you, it makes sense to feel sadness, defeat, anger, worry, tension, or numbness.
AND you can resist the tide of systemic injustice and the stress of modern life without drowning in depression. I know individual therapy will not solve all the issues that brought us here but it can help to create a space where you can show up without shame to explore the impact of these factors on your wellbeing. It may help you work with your nervous system to restore energy and rekindle motivation to face life’s pressures. Therapy can be a source to remind you of your capabilities, strengths, and choices. When the path is murky or uncertain, therapy can help you clarify what brings purpose and meaning to life. If you are feeling disconnected from yourself, your surroundings, and your relationships, therapy is a place to regrow safe connections.
Therapy for depression offers a way to tap into the knowledge that you are enough, you belong, and you have power to make a difference in this world.
The systems of injustice and the grind of life today also don’t have to cause a full on anxiety spin out. It took a lot to get us into this situation and individual therapy alone won’t get us out, but it can help you to sort through your anxieties and find ways to make these situations more workable. When pressures of society are giving you messages that you are not measuring up, therapy can help with self-compassion tools. Therapy provides the opportunity for you to connect with your values so you can filter out and focus on the issues that are most important to you. Therapy may also create the space to explore how to recognize when to rest as well as when to channel your energy where it is most impactful.
Therapy for anxiety can help you protect and distribute your energy with more balance, and channel your fears into actions that matter.
AND while self-care and personal growth are important, they are not the full solution. You don’t have to take on the world’s problems alone. Engagement in community care is just as necessary for healing and sustaining one another as we work towards systemic change. Tapping into the momentum of the collective allows us to lift each other up, support each other, and take turns stepping forward to pitch in,
As a therapist in Houston, I’ve seen how powerful these networks of community care can be. They nurture individual healing while promoting growth for the collective good.
My Approach to Therapy for Depression & Anxiety
Seeking therapy for anxiety or depression is a significant step, and it demonstrates strength to explore options for support. I know this process isn’t easy, and it’s important to take the time to find a therapist you can connect with. I honor the courage it takes to show up for yourself and seek help.
I bring an open mind and curiosity into my work with clients so that they can trust they will not be shamed or judged, and can show up authentically. I’ll affirm your knowledge of yourself—even when it feels difficult to connect to—and respect your choices, even when they’re hard to make.Together, we'll explore the roots of your anxiety or depression, including how past experiences and traumas may contribute to your struggles. We'll examine the stories and beliefs that hold you back and find ways to navigate through challenging emotions and sensations stored in your body and nervous system. Perhaps the most important element that serves as the undercurrent to my approach is practicing showing up for ourselves and others with real compassion.
So, if you’re feeling oppressed, stressed, or overwhelmed, we’ll work together to build resilience, find balance, and foster a deeper connection to yourself and your community.
You don’t have to do this alone.
Reach out to schedule a free consultation.