Vili’s experience with depression treatment: “I couldn’t bring myself to do anything—now I’m studying and working in the forest again”

Vili, 48

Depression has been part of his life since childhood

Vili is a 48-year-old prison guard who has worked throughout his adult life. Depression has been part of his life since childhood, and he has been diagnosed with moderate depression.

Although life often felt heavy and exhausting, work remained an important source of structure. It gave rhythm to his days—something stable to hold on to.

Low energy, but routines kept him going

Before starting Sooma therapy, everyday life felt overwhelming.

“I didn’t really have the energy to do anything,” Vili says.

Despite this, he continued working, as it helped him maintain some routine. Over the years, he had tried several antidepressants, but they did not significantly improve his condition.

Changes came surprisingly quickly

After the first one to two weeks, people close to him began to notice a difference.

“My therapist and my mom said I seemed more energetic and in a better mood,” Vili recalls.

He himself began to notice changes a bit later. His thoughts became clearer, and he felt mentally lighter. Sleep also improved, and he started dreaming again—something that hadn’t happened in a long time.

Energy for physical work and studying

As the treatment progressed, his energy gradually returned. Vili found himself able to take on tasks that had previously felt too demanding.

He began working in his father’s forest again and applied to study social services. He is now studying through a flexible, distance-learning program.

“This spring, I’ve had more energy than before—so much that I’ve even thought about starting another degree.”

A shift in self-perception

One of the most meaningful changes was in how Vili saw himself.

“At one point, I realized that the way I saw myself wasn’t accurate anymore,” he says.

This shift toward a more positive self-image felt like an important step in his recovery.

Small improvements matter

At the beginning, he experienced some mild skin irritation, mainly due to not rinsing off the saline solution properly. As he became more familiar with the routine, this issue resolved.

Now, the treatment is part of his daily rhythm.

“I read for about 30 minutes during the treatment. It’s become a regular part of my day.”

“Even a small positive moment helps you move forward”

Vili emphasizes that recovery from depression is rarely simple or straightforward.

“Even a small good moment helps you move forward,” he says.

Looking ahead

Depression is a complex and individual condition, and there is no single solution that works for everyone.

Vili’s experience shows that the right treatment—combined with consistency and small daily steps—can help restore energy, clarity, and direction.

Even when progress feels slow, meaningful change is possible.