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I Struggle with Anxiety and Depression: What Should I Do?
Do you often wake up feeling depleted, with no motivation for the day to come? Or do you find yourself feeling increasingly fearful, jittery, and determined to avoid social situations?
Depression and anxiety are among the most common mental health problems worldwide — but that doesn’t make them any less distressing. Both conditions are complex in origin, and when left untreated, they can cause significant suffering.
At Church Street Medical Center and Aesthetics, our experts offer chronic disease management for depression and anxiety. We’re here to help you understand how these conditions manifest, what causes them, and what solutions are available.
Understanding depression and anxiety
Depression and anxiety often overlap, but they’re distinct conditions. Depression is commonly associated with low self-esteem, fatigue, lack of motivation, and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. Types of depression include:
- Major depressive disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Bipolar depression
- Postpartum depression
- Dysthymia
Anxiety is marked by excessive worry and fear. That may include fear of social situations or specific objects and scenarios, often leading to avoidance. Types of anxiety include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Specific phobias
- Agoraphobia
Depression and anxiety often occur together because one can feed into the other.
For example, living in a chaotic or unpredictable environment — especially from a young age — can cause chronic stress. If unresolved, that stress can lead to persistent fear, followed by hopelessness and sadness.
In addition, both conditions affect the same brain chemicals: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
Treatment options for depression and anxiety
Not all instances of depression and anxiety have purely psychological causes. Some cases are triggered by thyroid issues, hormonal imbalances, or even infections. That’s why the first step in treatment is a thorough medical evaluation to determine whether there’s a biological root.
If we can’t find a medical cause, treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both, depending on your assessment and needs.
People struggling with depression and anxiety are often more socially isolated and may be trapped in rigid, self-defeating thought patterns. Some also have unresolved trauma that can be safely addressed through therapy.
Managing your anxiety and depression
If you’re diagnosed with anxiety or depression — or suspect you may be suffering from one or both — call our office in Lenoir, North Carolina, or book an appointment online today.
Our empathetic team can walk you through our chronic disease management program and help you take the first steps toward feeling better, emotionally and physically.