Depression & Anxiety

Anxiety and depression are serious conditions that affect your day-to-day life, employment, and relationships. You are not alone when struggling with these mental health problems; the team at Solid Foundation Psychiatry, headed by Edewor Ben Osevwe, PMHNP-BC, is here to work with you at this uncertain time. Get the support you need from locations in Phoenix, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada, Portland, Oregon, and Pearland, Texas. Call Solid Foundation Psychiatry or use the online tool to request a telehealth appointment today. 

How are anxiety and depression different?

Anxiety and depression often occur together but are two different conditions. Anxiety is characterized by fear and unnecessary worry about specific events. The symptoms of worry become more intense over time and interfere with your ability to focus on daily life. 

Depression also interferes with daily life but in different ways. Depression causes you to feel unmotivated and excessively sad. You have trouble sleeping and lose interest in things and activities that once brought you joy. 

What are the symptoms of anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression often co-exist. Anxiety, however, usually shows up as:

• Restless feelings
• Nightmares and flashbacks
• Nervousness
• Insomnia
• Muscle tension
• Inability to control your worry

Some people experience panic attacks that involve trouble breathing, racing heart rate, sweating, and uncontrollable shaking. 

Depression causes feelings of sadness that can last for weeks or months. You may feel unworthy and have thoughts of self-harm. It’s common for people with depression to withdraw socially and disconnect from family and friends. 

Why do people develop anxiety and depression?

There’s no one singular cause of anxiety and depression. Many factors contribute to the development of these mental conditions, including:

Family history

Anxiety and depression have a genetic link. If you have a close family member with these mental health conditions, you’re at greater risk of developing them too. 

Trauma 

Traumatic events can cause you to develop depression and anxiety as a coping mechanism.

Brain structure

People with anxiety and depression often have chemical imbalances in their brains. 

Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions, like ADHD or chronic pain, can also lead to the development of anxiety and depression. 

Your therapist at Solid Foundation Psychiatry helps you understand the root cause of your depression and anxiety. 

How do you treat anxiety and depression?

Psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and medications help you manage the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Your Solid Foundation Psychiatry therapist helps you talk through triggers and develop better coping mechanisms to reduce symptoms and anxious or depressive behaviors. 

An improved diet, changes in certain prescription medications, and exercise can also help you better manage depression and anxiety. Mindfulness techniques, like meditation and deep breathing, are other tools your therapist may recommend. 

Medication consultation and management about antianxiety and antidepressant medications can also help improve your condition. Oftentimes, medications help resolve your symptoms enough, so you are more receptive to psychotherapy. 

Contact Solid Foundation Psychiatry if you need help with anxiety and depression. Call or schedule a telehealth appointment online.