Anxiety and Depression

Persistent anxiety goes beyond natural worrying.

Everyone worries. It is a part of life, and it shows you care.

However, when worries keep you up most nights, impact decision-making, make you afraid to try new things, or cause problems in your relationship, these experiences are not healthy. Such feelings are symptomatic of persistent anxiety.

Introverted and anxious are not synonyms. Social anxiety can be crippling and very isolating. There is a difference between lacking the desire to be around others and the fear of judgment by others. The “what if” thoughts are rampant, which gets in the way of making conversations simple.

Anxiety is not a part of your personality; it is a condition.

Depression can take its toll.

We all have mood swings that can lead to temporary depression. Nevertheless, depression can make it challenging to go to work or school, perform self-care, impact sleep or appetite, or cry all the time.

Everything slows down, creating a sense of hopelessness and making you lack enthusiasm for even things that once gave you joy. Sure, you go to work, face your family, and pretend you are okay. But you are not. Am I right?

Hobbies are no longer enjoyable, and people notice you’re a little more snappy than usual. You remove the mask before bed, and no one sees how badly you struggle to keep it together. You lie awake, dreading the next day.

Unfortunately, anxiety and depression often go hand in hand. This news makes you wonder, “Will things ever get better?”

There’s good news: you can get better.

Imagine waking up, and your mind is clear. Getting ready in the morning is no longer a rush to get out the door. You make decisions quickly, and unexpected traffic is not infuriating. Engaging in small talk is not gut-wrenching. The habit of ruminating on past conversations is no longer an issue. Spending time with friends and family is enjoyable again, and your personality shines through.

Thoughts lead to emotions, which lead to behaviors. I like to use the metaphor of physical therapy. Strengthening an injured muscle requires practicing specific exercises repeatedly. The same goes for treatment used to address anxiety and depression.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used forms of therapy in mental health. It provides a practical therapeutic approach for helping those dealing with anxiety and depression. CBT is like physical therapy for the brain. It uses strategies to break bad and strengthen good thinking habits: the more helpful thinking habits and the more helpful emotions and behaviors.

Excessive worry is a misuse of energy. I help clients learn how to use their mental energy wisely.

If anxiety and depression keep you from the life you desire, I can help. Contact me today for more information about my approach to dealing with anxiety and depression.