Anxiety And Depression Specialist

What is anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression often occur together, but they are two distinct mental health conditions.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a feeling of fear and worry and a normal response to stressful situations. However, when you have feelings of fear and worry about everyday things, you might have an anxiety disorder.

Depression

Depression is a mental illness that affects how you think, feel, and manage daily life.

It’s common for people to have depression and anxiety at the same time, but both conditions require individual care. 

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

There are several types of anxiety disorders. Common types include:

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

People with GAD experience excessive worry and fear about everyday things on a daily basis.

Panic disorder

Panic is the most severe form of anxiety. People with panic disorder have frequent and unexpected panic attacks. During a panic attack, you feel intense fear and a sense of impending doom. 

A panic attack may also cause physical symptoms like shortness of breath or heart palpitations. 

Phobias 

Phobias are an intense fear towards objects or situations. Arachnophobia (fear of spiders), agoraphobia (fear of open spaces, crowds, or being outside), and social anxiety disorder (fear of social situations) are types of phobias. 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

OCD isn’t a type of anxiety disorder but causes obsessive thoughts that trigger feelings of anxiety, which are relieved by compulsive behaviors. 

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression is more than feeling sad. It’s a serious mood disorder that interferes with your daily life. Common depression symptoms include:

• Low mood
• Lack of energy
• Feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
• Anxiety or guilt
• Irritability
• Loss of interest in activities, friends, and family
• Insomnia
• Changes in appetite
• Thoughts of suicide or death
• Unexplained body aches, digestive issues, or headaches

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, schedule a consultation at Mental Health Wellness Boutique.

What treatments help anxiety and depression?

Mrs. Ashamalla customizes your anxiety and depression treatment plan after she conducts a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. She takes an integrated approach to care and uses medications and therapy to help with anxiety and depression.

Medications

Psychiatric medications ease symptoms to help you feel better. Mrs. Ashamalla is an experienced family nurse practitioner and works closely with you to find the right medication and dose to alleviate your depression and anxiety symptoms.

Therapy

Mrs. Ashamalla customizes your therapy based on your needs. She may recommend individual and family therapy when appropriate. Psychiatric disorders affect the whole family, and she works closely with family members to repair relationships and improve communication.

For help and guidance with anxiety and depression, call the Mental Health Wellness Boutique office in Peoria, Arizona, or schedule online today. Telemedicine appointments are also available.