A major depressive disorder (or “depression”) is diagnosed when five or more of the following symptoms of depression are present for most of the day, nearly every day for at least 2 weeks. At least one of the symptoms must be either persistent sad or “empty” feelings or loss of interest in activities.
- Constant Sadness, Irritability & Hopelessness
- Having Trouble Sleeping, Low Energy/Fatigue
- Feeling Worthless or Guilty for No Reason
- Significant Weight Change
- Difficulty Concentrating & Loss of Interest in Favorite Activities
- Panic Attacks, Acting Aggressive, Being Angry or Violent
- Thoughts About Suicide or Dying
Possibly others too have noticed you have lost energy levels, your smile, and your positive outlook on life. You know you want to continue living fully and feeling better about yourself physically as well as emotionally but somehow you can’t shake it off!
Do You Ask Yourself???
“Am I thinking of getting some kind of help? Does this mean I am weak? Why Can’t I Beat This?”
It takes a lot of courage to realize you might need help outside yourself. Yet, you are here because you are tired of your symptoms lasting as long as they have, and they haven’t gone away and you realize you cannot do this might be more serious than I thought.
Excessive Anxiety Symptoms
Excessive and/or unrealistic worry that is difficult to control occurring more days than not. Restlessness, tiredness, shortness of breath or muscle tension. Palpitations, shortness of breath, dry mouth, or nausea. Felling constantly on edge, difficulty concentrating, trouble falling or staying asleep, general state of irritability.
Therapy Solutions
Reduce overall frequency, intensity, and duration so that daily functioning is not impaired. Learn and implement calming techniques to manage anxiety. Identify major life conflicts from past and present and work towards resolutions.
Panic Attacks
Panic disorder is a real illness that can be successfully treated. It is characterized by sudden attacks of terror, usually accompanied by a pounding heart, sweatiness, weakness, faintness, or dizziness. During these attacks, people with panic disorder may flush or feel chilled; their hands may tingle or feel numb; and they may experience nausea, chest pain, or smothering sensations. Panic attacks usually produce a sense of unreality, a fear of impending doom, or a fear of losing control. People who have full-blown, repeated panic attacks can become very disabled by their condition and should seek treatment before they start to avoid places or situations where panic attacks have occurred.
Therapy Solutions:
Reduce fear of triggering panic and eliminate avoidance of activities and environments thought to trigger panic. Increase comfort in freely leaving home and being in a public environment. Practice positive self talk that builds confidence.
Have Questions?
Call and you can speak to one of our administrative staff. They are happy to help answer any questions or match you with a therapist.
