Anxiety/Depression

Living with mental health disorders like depression and anxiety can overwhelm every aspect of your life. Suppose you’re suffering from anxiety or depression. In that case, Nikki Armstrong, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, offers compassionate care and treatment from the comfort of your home through Armstrong Telehealth LLC, a telehealth-only practice. Call Armstrong Telehealth LLC to book a sick visit or schedule online today.

What are anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression are mood disorders that cause extreme distress and despair to millions of people across the United States every year. These common mental health problems can affect anyone at any age and may become so severe they overwhelm your life.

Anxiety

Anxiety is an emotion everyone feels – important events like interviews or hospital appointments, life changes, moving home, having a baby, and the stresses of everyday living can make you feel anxious and scared.

These reactions are normal and should soon pass, but they persist and worsen if you have an anxiety disorder. Fear begins to take over every aspect of your life, and you may experience panic attacks.

Depression

Depression is a similarly persistent state of mind, but in this case, you feel hopeless, worthless, and desperately unhappy. Like anxiety, these emotions affect everyone now and again, particularly during difficult times. However, if you have depression, these feelings are constant and unshakeable.

What causes anxiety and depression?

It’s not always clear why people develop anxiety and depression. Very often, a chemical imbalance in the brain affects mood, but why this should happen in some people isn’t fully understood.

There could be a genetic link, as having relatives with mental health problems increases your risk of anxiety and depression.

Anxiety and depression may develop after a painful experience or a change in your circumstances, such as a relationship breakdown or losing a loved one. It could be the result of years of stress or chronic pain, or there may have been a trauma in your childhood that’s still affecting you.

Some specific forms of anxiety and depression are postpartum depression following childbirth or social anxiety disorder. Anxiety and depression can also come on for no apparent reason.

How are anxiety and depression treated?

Armstrong Telehealth LLC treats anxiety and depression using talk therapy and medication. The providers can also provide referrals to mental health specialists if needed.

Taking the right dose of a suitable antidepressant or antianxiety drug helps to rebalance your brain chemistry and stabilize your mood. There are several types of medications for anxiety and depression, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and older drugs called tricyclic antidepressants.

Talk therapy can play a significant role in recovering from anxiety and depression. Expressing how you feel in a safe environment can be tremendously beneficial, and Nikki is here to lend a compassionate ear. If necessary, Nikki can help you find a therapist for extended talk therapy treatment.

Don’t struggle with anxiety and depression alone. Call Armstrong Telehealth LLC today to schedule your virtual consultation or book an appointment online.