Anxiety & depression are more than just feelings
If you or a loved one are suffering from frequent feelings of anxiety, nervousness, or panic attacks. It can be tempting to dismiss these experiences as mere feelings, or to behave as though anxiety, panic attacks and depression are just a normal part of life in a hectic world, and there's nothing that we can do about it.
Although anxiety is common, (roughly 18% of Americans, more than 40 million of us, have an anxiety disorder) we should avoid normalizing high levels of anxiety. Unaddressed and persistent feelings of anxiety can lead to depression, impact work and home life, distort our relationships, mood and perception, and even impair our ability to think critically and to achieve our goals.
So it's important to take the time to understand the root causes of our anxiety and depressive symptoms, to regain or establish a positive and productive outlook, and to take steps so that we can live our best life, and be our best self in the midst of life's challenges.
Signs That It's Time to Address Your Anxiety & Depression
A few of the signs that it may be time to address your anxiety and depression are:
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You are frequently nervous, restless or tense
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You have a sense of impeding danger, threat or doom
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You have an increased heart rate while not exercising
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You find yourself working to control your breathing
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You have trouble concentrating or thinking clearly
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You find yourself obsessively revisiting certain negative or anxious thoughts
If these experiences are at all common for you, it's a good idea to take the time to address these symptoms of anxiety. In a very practical way, sometimes these anxious feelings are a sign that we need to take some time for ourselves to evaluate our current situation, and the people, places and things that may be triggering our anxiety.
That's where counseling for anxiety can be helpful.
The signs of depression may be more subtle and more complex than those for anxiety. Depression is particularly prone to be normalized, especially if it has gone on for some time and has not been addressed. These are a few of the signs that you or a loved one may be suffering from depression, and could benefit from counseling.
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Feeling helpless or hopeless
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A lack of interest or engagement in daily activities
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Changes to appetite or weight
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Loss of energy
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Self-loathing
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Anger or irritability
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Reckless behavior
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Difficulty concentrating or pursuing goals
If you or a loved one is experiencing anxiety, depression, or both. I encourage you to schedule an appointment. Scheduling a session is quick and easy, and you'll be glad that you're taking the time for yourself.
After more than 40 years counseling clients suffering with anxiety and depression in Harrisburg, I believe more than ever that it is possible to improve our lives, and to enjoy living, when we take the time we need to address our anxiety and depression.
I'm looking forward to speaking with you.