Did you know, for people under the age of 60, depression is the most common disability in the world?

 

Anxiety and depression are two unique syndromes, yet have overlapping symptoms. Symptoms can present in shorter, more intense ‘episodes,’ or interfere to some degree most of the time. Anxious and depressive symptoms can impact mood and functioning, both mentally and physically. We continue to learn more, although it seems that a combination of biological, psychological and social/ environmental factors contribute to the likelihood one may experience anxiety or depression. Trauma exposure, medical conditions, certain medications, sleep quality, stress and use of substances can play roles. 

 

So what can we do? Cognitive behavior therapy examines the interplay between our thoughts, feelings and behaviors. A small change in one of these areas has a ripple effect on the others, and we can use this to our advantage. Grounding exercises help bring us back to the present, which is often useful if our thoughts have gone to a negative place. Developing and using coping skills, or healthy activities that are easy to access and bring us back to comfort, such as meditating, gentle movement, time in nature, or time with loved ones, can often support mood or help manage anxiety. And, there are medications which target one or more neurotransmitter systems- serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, glutamate, gaba and some others- which can be recommended based on each person’s individual symptoms and preferences.