Did you know that it’s possible for someone to have depression and anxiety at the same time? In fact, these are two types of mental health disorders that frequently occur together. About 60% of people in the U.S. who have anxiety also display symptoms of depression. If you think you may be one of the many people who have both disorders, it’s important that you learn more about both and what types of treatments work best.
What are some of the most common anxiety and depression disorders that may be co-occurring?
Learn more about each of the following disorders here:
- Major depressive disorder — MDD is a type of mood disorder that involves persistent low mood and loss of interest in regular activities.
- Bipolar disorder —This disorder is characterized by extreme changes between high and low moods. Someone with bipolar disorder experiences episodes of manic symptoms, followed by episodes of depressive symptoms.
- Generalized anxiety disorder — Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by chronic, excessive worry. GAD can interfere with a person’s ability to perform daily functions and can cause a variety of anxiety-related symptoms.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) — Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a type of anxiety disorder. It is characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. A person with OCD is also more likely to experience depression comorbidity.
- Panic disorder —Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder. It can cause sudden and intense bouts of panic and anxiety-related symptoms.
What are some of the top treatments that are effective for depression and anxiety?
You don’t have to deal with depression and anxiety alone. There are plenty of providers who are more than willing to help you and are experts at managing the symptoms of mental health disorders. Here are some of the most common treatments for depression and anxiety:
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy — One of the top treatments for depression with anxious features is TMS therapy. TMS therapy can be effective for patients who struggle to see results from more traditional treatment options. This form of therapy uses a coil that sends magnetic pulses to areas of depression of the brain. This targeted stimulation, done over the course of treatment, can improve the symptoms of depression over time.
- Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication — Antidepressants can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of depression. Anti-anxiety medication can reduce some of the anxious symptoms that a person might be feeling.
- Talk therapy — Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is a method of treatment used for a variety of mental health disorders. It can be particularly effective for people dealing with depression and anxiety. Talk therapy involves sessions between a patient and a licensed mental health professional who uses strategies to improve behaviors and thought processes.
- Lifestyle changes — Some examples of lifestyle changes include eating more nutritional food, getting regular physical activity and spending less time in front of a screen. Poor lifestyle habits can exacerbate the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Substance use disorder treatment — If your depression and anxiety symptoms are related to substance use disorder (SUD), it’s definitely a good idea to seek out SUD treatment. Using substances can not only lead to these mental health disorders but exacerbate the symptoms of them.
Active Path Mental Health can help you get the treatment you need for anxiety and depression
Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can lead a person to believe that their life is quickly spiraling out of control. These disorders can impair your daily functioning, damage relationships with others and make you uncomfortable. Treatment from our Active Path Mental Health team can help you better manage your symptoms. You’ll receive the treatment you need to improve your quality of life. Let us help you work toward a hopeful future, free from your anxiety and depression symptoms.
Active Path Mental Health is proud to say that patients can receive treatment from locations in both Oregon and Washington. The team members at each one of our locations are dedicated to helping patients recover from their mental health disorders. But don’t just take it from us, take it from our patient reviews.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
