It is normal to feel stressed or overwhelmed sometimes. However, when feelings of worry or sadness take over daily life, it may be time to look for anxiety and depression help.
These conditions affect millions of people globally but are also manageable with the right care. Let us discuss various treatments, support options, and how family medicine providers can help you find relief.
What Are Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are common mental health challenges people face daily. They can occur independently or together, and their effects may impact job performance, relationships, and overall well-being.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a mental health condition that causes feelings of fear, worry, or unease. While it is normal to feel nervous occasionally, people with anxiety often feel these emotions excessively or without a clear cause. This can interfere with their ability to function effectively at work, school, or home.
Common symptoms of anxiety include:
- Persistent worry or fear.
- Racing thoughts.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, sweating, and jitteriness.
The most common types include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
Depression
Depression is a medical condition that goes beyond feelings of sadness and affects how a person thinks, feels, and handles daily life. It is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world.
Symptoms of depression may include:
- Persistent sadness lasting weeks or more.
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
- Fatigue or lack of energy.
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
- Changes in sleep or appetite.
If left untreated, anxiety and depression can worsen over time. Seeking anxiety and depression help through professional care is the first and most important step toward recovery.
The Importance of Professional Anxiety and Depression Help
Anxiety and depression are medical conditions — not weaknesses or personal failings. Like other medical conditions, they are best treated with professional care and guidance. Evidence-based treatment can significantly reduce symptoms and improve daily life.
Family medicine providers are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking testing for mental illness. Providers play a critical role in understanding your specific situation and recommending personalized treatment plans.
Therapy Options for Anxiety and Depression Help
Therapy is often the first step taken when addressing anxiety or depression. It involves discussing feelings to better understand triggers and emotions.
Family medicine providers skilled in mental health can connect you with trusted therapy options or provide recommendations for further consultation.
Medications That Can Help
Medication can also play a significant role in managing anxiety and depression. Providers may suggest a suitable option after considering your individual symptoms. They can also offer GeneSight® testing to determine how your genes may affect the outcomes of your medications.
Common medications include:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (Zoloft).
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as duloxetine (Cymbalta).
- Benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax) for short-term anxiety relief.
Every medication works differently, and GeneSight® testing may help find what suits you. Follow the provider’s advice to minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness.
Lifestyle Changes That Support Mental Health
Therapy and prescriptions are powerful tools. However, lifestyle adjustments also make a huge impact. For example:
- Exercise increases the production of mood-boosting chemicals in your brain.
- Balanced diets with fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids support brain health.
- Adequate sleep helps regulate mood and reduce irritability.
- Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or meditation, provide relaxation.
Adopting these habits strengthens the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
How Do I Know When to Seek Help
If you or someone you care about experiences symptoms of anxiety or depression that interfere with daily life, it is time to seek professional support. Your family medicine provider can assess your needs and connect you to resources like therapy or medication.
Do not hesitate to ask for help if you:
- Feel overwhelmed or unable to cope with stress.
- Experience severe mood swings or intense feelings of fear or sadness.
- Notice changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels.
How a Family Medicine Provider Can Help
Family medicine providers take a holistic approach by assessing both your physical and mental health to create a personalized care plan. They begin by discussing your symptoms and medical history and testing for mental health conditions.
Depending on your needs, they may recommend lifestyle changes, prescribe medications, and provide referrals for therapy.
Throughout your treatment, they will provide guidance and support to help you manage anxiety and depression more effectively.
Anxiety and Depression Help in Colorado Springs, CO
If you think you might need anxiety and depression help, know that resources are always available. Professional care can make a life-changing difference. Finding support from a trusted family medicine provider is a significant step forward.
At Abundance Health Care, our compassionate provider, Dr. Bruner-Hill, is dedicated to understanding your needs and creating a personalized plan for recovery. Whether you need medication management, therapy referral, or GeneSight® testing for mental illness, we are here to help.
Call our friendly staff today at (720) 869-0547 or fill out our appointment request form to learn more about anxiety and depression help or schedule a consultation with our provider. We look forward to serving you!
