An Experience with Anxiety and Depression…
When I was anxious and depressed, my whole world narrowed down. It was as if I was wearing blinders and I could see only the negative in life. I could sit on the couch and notice that the house needed cleaning but I couldn’t find the strength or will to get up and do it. I was also worrying constantly and feeling restless and tense. Needless to say, my anxiety and depression had a powerful impact on my relationship and my family.
While I was reluctant to do so, getting into therapy was the right decision. I needed someone to give me objective feedback about myself and support for my efforts to get better. I learned different ways of thinking about myself and was able to see how my negative thinking held me back.
Getting better is a process. Through my counseling I learned that I am worth it. I just had to start somewhere. If you’re dealing with anxiety or depression I hope you’ll take some encouragement from me and know that life can get better. It finally feels as if I am getting my life back. I feel as if I’m a stronger person now than I was before I started therapy. — “Katherine”
Some of the symptoms of clinical depression include (source: NIMH):
- Persistent sad, anxious, or empty feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating, or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment.
Some of the symptoms anxiety include (source: NIMH):
- Persistent worrying or obsessions
- Inability to relax, restlessness, and feeling keyed up or on edge
- Difficulty concentrating, or the feeling that your mind “goes blank”
Physical signs and symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Muscle tension or muscle aches
- Trembling, feeling twitchy
- Being easily startled
- Trouble sleeping
- Sweating
- Nausea, diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome
- Headaches