Fear And Depression

Current research suggests that depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors. While it may occur at any age, it often begins in adulthood. As with many anxiety disorders, depression in children and adolescents may present itself as irritability more than low mood.

By adulthood, depression shows up as hopelessness, despair and anger. With a low energy level, afflicted individuals often feel overwhelmed by the day-to-day tasks and personal relationships fundamental to life.

As mentioned above, depression is often spawned from an anxiety disorder left untreated.

What Might Indicate that Both Anxiety and Depression Are Present?

Traits that may signal the presence of both anxiety disorder and depression include:

  1. Irrational worries or fears that won’t go away
  2. Physical symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, rapid heartbeat, labored breathing or abdominal pain
  3. Difficulty going to sleep or staying asleep
  4. Trouble remembering, making decisions or concentrating
  5. Constant feelings of sadness or worthlessness
  6. Loss of usual interest in activities or hobbies
  7. Feeling often tired and cranky
  8. Inability to relax and live in the moment
  9. Suffering from panic attacks, including the sense of losing inner control
What Strategies Are Often Used in Treating this Dual Diagnosis?
  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT is often used to treat people with both disorders. Fears, anxieties and tendencies toward depression are managed by seeking out their root causes. Once uncovered, patients learn how to take control of their emotions and life.
  2. Antidepressant medications – Often combined with CBT, these may be prescribed in treating both disorders. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are new antidepressant drugs that produce fewer side effects than their predecessors.
  3. Exercise – This can be very helpful for both disorders. Physical activity causes feel-good chemicals to be released in the body. This aids in relaxation and feeling of well-being.
  4. Relaxation techniques – This typically involves meditation or mindfulness. These techniques can often help to remedy both disorders and improve quality of life.

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