ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
and no amount of anxiety or worry can change the future.”
Our fears feel the way they feel.
Taking an exam, public speaking, starting a new job – these common events give some people the jitters. Even going on a date or to a party can be scary. Some people experience a full-blown panic attack at the thought of being in a crowd.
Even if these situations are not physically dangerous, they feel that way – like natural disasters.
What’s the basis of our fears?
Why is it that one person is terrified of spiders, while another person can pick up a spider without fear? It’s not the spider itself that causes the fear, but our interpretation of the significance of the spider. It’s what goes on in the mind that changes how we view the spider.
It’s easy to say, “Don’t be afraid.” It’s another thing to turn off the alarm bells in our head.
How do I face my fears?
We can’t steer clear of everything in life that triggers our anxiety. Our lives are full of potential fears.
In fact, when we run from them or try to alter them, we’re reinforcing the power of the unhelpful thinking around them. We become more centered on the anxiety rather than less so.
If we engage in “safety behaviors” to make us feel more comfortable – such as checking the locks on all the doors three times before leaving the house – it causes the body to think that the situation is more dangerous than it really is. That only makes it worse.
And what about depression?
Whether you’re isolating yourself from others or simply do not get much pleasure from life, remember that the future doesn’t have to feel bleak. Depression is highly treatable.
Medicine can help, but therapy can make a world of difference – and your outlook can turn around quickly. Several factors can affect or cause depression – genetic, biological, and social factors, as well as major life changes, trauma, and stress.
you’ve never done.”
I can help you.
Whether you’re experiencing anxiety or depression, working with me will help you find a new path – a way to eliminate the ‘what-ifs,’ a plan to follow to ease the depressive thoughts.
If you’re ready to partner with someone who will provide warm, supportive, and empathic guidance, contact me now.
You’ve got nothing to lose by calling me at (919) 533-7907.