Depression & Anxiety

What are depression and anxiety?

Depression and anxiety are common mental health conditions that affect how people think, feel, and function.

Depression often causes ongoing sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in activities. Anxiety involves excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that can interfere with daily life. Some people experience one condition, while others have both.

How common are depression and anxiety?

Depression and anxiety are very common. Many people experience symptoms at some point in their lives, especially during times of stress, illness, or major life changes. Some develop severe conditions like major depressive disorder or persistent depressive disorder.

Depression and anxiety can affect people of all ages and from all walks of life. Experiencing depression or anxiety doesn’t mean someone is weak; it means they need support and care, just as they would if they had a physical illness.

What symptoms do depression and anxiety cause?

Depression symptoms include the following:

• Feeling hopeless
• Self-loathing
• Being tired most of the time
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Trouble concentrating
• Loss of motivation
• Suicidal thoughts

Anxiety symptoms include constant worry, restlessness, muscle tension, and racing thoughts. Physical symptoms such as a fast heartbeat, nausea, chest pain, and shortness of breath can spiral at times, resulting in a panic attack.

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and often develop gradually, making them easy to overlook at first.

What causes depression and anxiety?

There is rarely a single cause for depression or anxiety. The following all play a part in triggering symptoms:

• Genetics
• Brain chemistry
• Chronic stress
• Medical conditions
• Hormonal changes
• Medications
• Life events

Diagnosis begins with a conversation. Dr. Raccuglia listens carefully to your symptoms and reviews your medical history and lifestyle factors. Screening tools can help assess symptom severity and guide treatment decisions.

What treatments are available for depression and anxiety?

Dr. Raccuglia personalizes depression and anxiety treatment to your needs, but common approaches include the following:

• Lifestyle changes
• Counseling or therapy referrals
• Improving sleep
• Nutrition
• Physical activity
• Stress management

Patients with more severe symptoms may also need medication. If so, Dr. Raccuglia carefully selects appropriate antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs and monitors them for safety and effectiveness.

Anyone experiencing persistent depression and/or anxiety symptoms should seek care by visiting Joseph R. Raccuglia, MD, Family Medical Practice. Early support can prevent symptoms from worsening and help you overcome depression and anxiety, so call the office or book an appointment online today.