Depression therapy - San Francisco Bay Area

Yes, many people suffer from anxiety as well as depression since both conditions can co-exist, and can even be two sides of the same coin.

Anxiety and depression are more closely related than might be imagined, despite the fact that anxiety is a high-energy state and depression is a low-energy state.

A person suffering from depression is likely to have a great deal of anxiety, possibly to the point of panic attacks. For instance, if you are in an anxious state and find yourself perpetually worrying, you feel bad about that. You may feel like you’ve failed, and may also experience feelings of shame and harsh self-criticism. That can often move you into depression.

While co-occurring anxiety and depression can exacerbate symptoms, treatment is most effective when both are treated at the same time.

A person who is experiencing grief or loss manifests symptoms due to the loss of a loved one, a beloved pet, their employment/income, or anything that holds true meaning for them, such as loss of country or the place they call home.

Although many people might call themselves depressed, depression is not the same as sadness and grief. That said, a person who is grieving may manifest depression.

How grief presents:

• There may be a precipitating event, such as death of a loved one or pet, loss of a significant other, loss of country/culture, loss of home, personal injury or illness, loss of employment, major life transition like retirement, loss of a friendship, loss of a personal dream, etc.

• Grief is an inevitable part of living and being human.

• Sad feelings are intermingled with joyful memories and heartfelt nostalgia.

• Even though your sadness is prevalent, you don’t have suicidal thoughts, or feel helpless, hopeless, and worthless.

• You can still find pleasure in other activities.

How depression presents and persists for a significant period of time:

• Feelings of persistent sadness, anxiety, as well as numbness.

• Feelings of hopelessness and/or despair.

• Feelings of helplessness, guilt, shame, and/or worthlessness.

• No interest in engaging in otherwise pleasurable activities and hobbies.

• Feelings of tiredness, loss of energy, lethargy.

• Irritability, restlessness, and agitation.

• Having a hard time concentrating, focusing, and making decisions.

• Sleeping patterns are disturbed, perhaps sleeping less or too much.

• Noticeable weight change (loss or gain), as well as changes in appetite.

• Suicidal thoughts and/or attempts.

• Aches and pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive issues that have no obvious medical explanation and/or do not improve despite medical treatment.

Medication may be beneficial, and I often collaborate with psychiatrists in the treatment of depression, particularly when it seems to have a biological rather than situational nature.

Still, research has demonstrated that having nourishing relationships and support is a central part of recovery. In the therapeutic setting, within a stable and safe environment, you can address the root causes of your depression, as well as learn how to enhance other relationships in your life.

The root of depression is complex. There is probably a genetic predisposition and may often accompany anxiety and trauma.

Some difficult triggers can include the death of a loved one, divorce, illness, or having a challenging relationship with alcohol and other substances.

It is not uncommon for life transitions that on the surface appear positive (weddings, pregnancy, children going to college, retirement) to trigger feelings of depression.

No. Different people are affected by depression in different ways.

For example:

Older adults with depression may have less visible symptoms or be less willing to acknowledge symptoms of depression. They are also more likely to have medical conditions that can lead to or exacerbate depression.

Women are thought to be more prone to depression than men. Women's depression rates may be linked to biological, reproductive, and hormonal aspects that are specific to women, as well as how women are treated in society. Sadness, worthlessness, and guilt are common symptoms of depression in women.

Younger children with depression may act unwell, intensely attach to a parent, or be caught in fearful thoughts that a parent may die, and/or refuse to go to school and participate in activities.

Teens experiencing depression may get into trouble at school, and exhibit irritability and frustration. Anxiety is often present, as well as eating disorders, substance abuse, and many of the other symptoms seen with adults.