Depression and anxiety commonly manifests physically, through stomach pains, headaches, disrupted or excessive sleep, and changes in mood or personality that may be noticeable by others. While the causes of mood disorders are unknown, a predisposition for it runs in families and it can be triggered by trauma and adverse life circumstances. Depression is diagnosed more frequently in women and tends to display differently in men than in women. People tend to suffer higher rates of depression after giving birth and in the fall and winter seasons.
Depression and anxiety may be co-occuring. Some individuals have difficulty concentrating on tasks and conversations. Other individuals abuse alcohol and drugs or overeat as a way of coping, causing them to develop other medical problems. Folks struggling with depression are also at increased risk for self-harm and suicidal ideation.
Depression and anxiety are characterized by prolonged emotional symptoms including but not limited to:
- Prolonged Sadness
- Being easily startled
- Mood Swings
- Guilt
- Exhaustion and Fatigue
- Inability to relax
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Every case is unique and requires individual attention, but there are a number of effective complementary ways of treating depression, including:
- Talk therapy
- Behavior modification
- Lifestyle changes
- Medication Management