Anxiety and Depression Treatment
What Is Depression?
Mild depression
Mild depression is characterized by feeling down or unhappy most of the time for at least two weeks. You may also lack interest in activities you used to enjoy and feel like you can’t accomplish anything.
Mild to moderate depression
Moderate depression includes similar symptoms to mild depression and other more severe symptoms such as decreased energy, changes in weight or appetite, difficulty sleeping, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
Moderate to severe depression
Someone suffering from severe depression will have all the above symptoms along with suicidal thoughts and hallucinations or delusions. Additionally, those with severe depression can suffer from these symptoms for years.
What Is Anxiety?
Mild anxiety
To be diagnosed with mild anxiety, you must feel on edge or nervous most of the time for at least six months. You may also experience physical symptoms such as sweating, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath with minimal exertion.
Mild to moderate anxiety
If you’re suffering from moderate anxiety, you may experience more severe feelings of being on edge or being nervous most of the time, having difficulty with sleep because of worrisome thoughts (even if you’re not aware of them), and experiencing similar physical symptoms as those suffering from mild anxiety.
Moderate to severe anxiety
Severe anxiety is when you experience intense anxiety symptoms for six months or longer, and your worry impairs your ability to function at work and your relationships. You also may experience more severe physical symptoms when exposed to specific triggers.
What Causes Depression and Anxiety?
Brain chemistry
Various factors, including brain chemistry, can cause depression and anxiety. When you have depression or anxiety, your brain may not produce enough serotonin (a chemical that helps regulate mood) or norepinephrine (a hormone and neurotransmitter that affects how the body responds to stress).
Hormone levels
Hormone levels can also affect your mental health. For example, thyroid disease or low testosterone (in men) may cause depression and anxiety symptoms. In women, this can be caused by changes in hormone levels during menopause, pregnancy, and after giving birth.
Family history
Your family history may also influence your risk for depression and anxiety. If you have a parent or sibling who has either of these disorders, you are more likely to develop them yourself.
Early childhood trauma
Traumatic experiences in childhood, such as physical or sexual abuse, can increase your risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders later in life. Trauma negatively affects the brain, increasing the risk of developing mental health conditions.
Substance use
Using certain drugs or alcohol can also lead to depression and anxiety. Marijuana, ecstasy, amphetamines, cocaine, nicotine (cigarettes), caffeine (too much coffee) are all examples of substances that may contribute to mental health problems later in life.
Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Feeling fatigued easily
Those dealing with anxiety or depression may not feel like going out or being with others. You may also experience feelings of worthlessness and guilt and a loss of interest in activities that bring you joy.
Difficulty concentrating or recalling information
When someone is depressed or over-anxious, it can be challenging to focus on what’s going on around them. They can also have trouble remembering information or making decisions. This can end up affecting everyday tasks, your job, and your relationships.
Muscle tension
When your body is under a lot of stress and anxiety, it’s common to feel tightness in your neck and shoulders or have muscle aches all over your body. Their muscles may also be constantly tense without an apparent reason.
Racing heart
It is normal for your heart to beat faster when you are exercising. But if your heart rate increases even without exercise, this may be a sign you are suffering from anxiety or depression. Having an increased heart rate for a prolonged period can harm your health.
Grinding teeth
When experiencing anxiety or depression, it’s common to clench your teeth and grind them. Grinding your teeth can cause a change in how your front tooth bite feels (i.e., if they usually feel smooth, they may start to feel uneven).
Difficulty sleeping
Problems with sleep are common symptoms of depression and anxiety. Not only can it be challenging for someone who has these conditions to fall asleep or stay asleep, but they often experience nightmares or wake up feeling tired even after having slept through the night. They also tend not to remember their dreams.
Treatments for Anxiety and Depression
Self-Care
The first thing you can do is to take care of yourself. Eating healthy, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of sleep can often reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. You may also find it helpful to practice mindfulness meditation or yoga.
Medications
Taking medications under a doctor’s supervision can often help anxiety and depression. There are a variety of anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs, which can be very effective in treating these conditions. These drugs may take some time to work, but once they are entirely in your system, they can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy involves working with a therapist to help you understand and manage your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Therapy can be an extremely effective treatment for anxiety and depression when combined with medication or self-care.
Can anxiety and depression be treated together?
It’s a common occurrence to suffer from both anxiety and depression. Suffering from both anxiety and depression can make treatment more difficult, but it is possible to get relief from both conditions with the help of a doctor or therapist.
Anxiety and Depression FAQ
What are the best non-prescription tablets for anxiety/depression?
It is best to consult with a physician in regard to anti-depressant or anxiety medication. If you’re looking for another option, some vitamins can help reduce stress levels, such as chamomile tea, valerian root, or magnesium supplements.
What are some good ways to cope with anxiety and depression without medication?
Exercise, meditation, and therapy are all great options for coping with anxiety or depression. You can also try journaling, spending time with friends, and reading books.
Has anyone tried an alternative treatment for anxiety/depression that worked for the long term?
Yes, some people have found that acupuncture can be an effective treatment option in managing anxiety and depression symptoms.
Contact NOLA Detox and Recovery Center for Help
If you need assistance in dealing with your anxiety and depression, NOLA Detox and Recovery Center is here to help. Our team of professionals can use their years of experience to figure out what treatment method can work best for you. Contact us at (504) 446-1111 or visit our campus today.
FEEL
BETTER
FASTER.
Louisiana’s Premier Addiction Treatment Program
Addiction is not your fault, but it is your responsibility. If you’re on our site, you’re likely facing a critical situation. We are here for you and committed to providing the care you need.
NOLA Detox offers same-day admissions and is available 24/7.
Admissions by appointment only.