Anxiety & Depression

You are not alone.

Anxiety and depressive disorders are among the most common psychological symptoms and they frequently occur simultaneously or intermittently with one another. Whether or not you've been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic disorder or depression and regardless of whether you take medication, psychotherapy is effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Studies show that combining psychotherapy and antidepressant medication is more effective than treatment with antidepressant medication alone, specifically for major depression and panic disorder and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Depressive disorders and depressive episodes are characterized by negative self-perception, disconnection from oneself, others and the world, sadness, guilt and low self-worth, disturbed sleep and appetite, loss of interest and pleasure, and tiredness and these symptoms interfere with day-to-day functioning. Severe depression increases the risk of suicide.

Anxiety disorders and episodes are characterized by feelings of nervousness, restlessness and fear. Anxiety is often accompanied by physical tension, a sense of danger, panic or doom that interferes with one's ability to concentrate. There can be digestive upset, headaches, and disturbed sleep and appetite. It can feel as though it is extremely difficult to control your worries.

Therapy has been shown to significantly reduces depression and anxiety symptoms post-treatment. My approach to treating anxiety and depression is first and foremost through compassion, curiosity and connection. The rest we figure out together because every person responds differently and comes with their own unique history, inclinations and circumstances. Sessions can be more structured or fluid, depending on what works best for you. Our work together will be collaborative and you have agency in our work together.

References

Cuijpers, P., Sijbrandij, M., Koole, S. L., Andersson, G., Beekman, A. T., & Reynolds III, C. F. (2014). Adding psychotherapy to antidepressant medication in depression and anxiety disorders: a meta-analysis. Focus, 12(3), 347-358.

Kalin, N. H. (2020). The critical relationship between anxiety and depression. American Journal of Psychiatry, 177(5), 365-367.

Health Quality Ontario. (2017). Psychotherapy for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder: a health technology assessment. Ontario health technology assessment series, 17(15), 1.

World Health Organization. (‎2017)‎. Depression and other common mental disorders: global health estimates. World Health Organization. https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/254610.