Anxiety & Depression
If you are feeling anxious or depressed, you are not alone. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America estimates that anywhere from 20-24% of Americans experience anxiety or depression every year.
The good news is that both anxiety and depression are very treatable through therapy.
WHAT IS ANXIETY?
The mind and body experiences anxiety as a natural way to alert you of any potential dangers. When the brain suspects that you are in an unsafe situation, you experience an automatic “fight, flight, or freeze” state, which prepares your mind and body to respond to any dangers in the environment. These automatic responses can include a racing heart, rapid thoughts, feeling of “going blank”, alertness, or sweaty palms.
WHEN DOES ANXIETY BECOME A PROBLEM?
Although the experience of anxiety is a normal way your brain keeps you safe, your brain can sometimes go into overdrive when sensing potential danger. Your mind and body may too often go into the “fight, flight, or freeze” state even when you may not be in any real danger. This is when anxiety begins to disrupt your day-to-day and interfere with life. You may experience sleep issues, missed social events, difficulties in relationships, or inconsistent levels of energy.
WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
When you are depressed, you may feel as though there is no hope left. You may believe that nothing works no matter what you do.
Feelings of hopelessness and defeat are typical of depression. Therapy can be an effective approach to not only manage symptoms of depression, but also get to the root cause of how you got here.
SIGNS OF DEPRESSION?
People who are depressed report a variety of symptoms. Below is a list of common signs of depression. Before assuming you may have depression, I recommend consulting with a licensed therapist.
Loss of interest in activities that you used to enjoy
Sleeping much more or much less than you used to
A persistent feeling of sadness, despair, and emptiness
A decrease in energy
Difficulty concentrating and getting things done
Appetite or weight changes
Thoughts of death or suicide (if you are currently contemplating suicide, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255)
Irritability
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Teariness or more frequent crying
Body aches, headaches, and digestive problems
Anxiety