Therapy for Depression

THERAPY FOR DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

Dr. Benson and her team offer treatment for Depression and Anxiety. We utilize psychodynamic models of treatment to address deep rooted issues that are causing depression and anxiety to manifest in your life. We are interested in assisting you to heal long standing internal issues that have been holding you back in your life.

DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY: HOW TO IDENTIFY

What’s the link?

Depression and anxiety can occur at the same time. In fact, it’s been estimated that 45 percent of people with one mental health condition meet the criteria for two or more disorders. One study found that halfTrusted Source of people with either anxiety or depression have the other condition.

Although each condition has its own causes, they may share similar symptoms and treatments.

What are the symptoms of each condition?

Some symptoms of depression and anxiety overlap, such as problems with sleep, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. But there are several key differences that help distinguish between the two.

Depression

Feeling down, sad, or upset is normal. It can be concerning feeling that way for several days or weeks on end.

Physical symptoms and behavioral changes caused by depression include:

decreased energy, chronic fatigue, or feeling sluggish frequently
difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or recalling
pain, aches, cramps, or gastrointestinal problems without any clear cause
changes in appetite or weight
difficulty sleeping, waking early, or oversleeping

Emotional symptoms of depression include:

loss of interest or no longer finding pleasure in activities or hobbies
persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness
feeling hopeless or pessimistic
anger, irritability, or restlessness
feeling guilty or experiencing feelings of worthlessness or helplessness
thoughts of death or suicide
suicide attempts

Anxiety

Anxiety, or fear and worry, can happen to anyone from time to time, too. It’s not unusual to experience anxiety before a big event or important decision.

But, chronic anxiety can be debilitating and lead to irrational thoughts and fears that interfere with your daily life.

Physical symptoms and behavioral changes caused by generalized anxiety disorder include:

feeling fatigued easily
difficulty concentrating or recalling
muscle tension
racing heart
grinding teeth
sleep difficulties, including problems falling asleep and restless, unsatisfying sleep

Emotional symptoms of anxiety include:

restlessness, irritability, or feeling on edge
difficulty controlling worry or fear
dread
panic

Suicide prevention

If you think someone is at immediate risk of self-harm or hurting another person:

Call 911 or your local emergency number.
Stay with the person until help arrives.
Remove any guns, knives, medications, or other things that may cause harm.
Listen, but don’t judge, argue, threaten, or yell.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, get help from a crisis or suicide prevention hotline. Try the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.