Healing Depression through Self-Expression

There is an intriguing psychological connection between the processes of expression and depression, both of which relate to the concept of life force.

At the root of the word “express” is “press,” symbolising movement or the outward flow of energy. Expression, in this sense, represents the healthy externalisation of life force—moving thoughts, feelings, and creativity into the world. Similarly, “press” is central to the word “depressed,” indicating that the life force is still active. However, in depression, this energy becomes directed inward, constricting and turning against the self rather than being expressed outwardly.

The distinction between the two lies in the direction of energy flow. While expression channels life force outward in a productive and often therapeutic way, depression internalises and suppresses it. Importantly, these two states cannot coexist; one cannot simultaneously express and depress life force.

From a therapeutic perspective, depression often serves as a critical signal that aspects of a person’s life may require attention or change. It can indicate unfulfilled needs or a lack of meaningful outlets for self-expression. In psychotherapy, addressing depression involves exploring underlying causes and identifying areas where clients can cultivate interests or find constructive ways to express their thoughts and emotions. This shift from inward repression to outward expression is an essential part of the healing process.