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Can PTSD Cause Depression?

PTSD Cause Depression

Depression is one of the most famous mental disorders of the current generation. Thanks to the massive traction that depression has gained as a serious disease, research on curing and treating other major mental disorders has come underway.

After taking other mental disorders into account, scientists tend to find one disorder that can relate to depression, and that is PTSD.

PTSD comes under the larger umbrella of anxiety disorders but is very different from other types of anxiety disorders. PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder is a very common disorder among war veterans or people who have suffered some emotional or physical trauma in their life.

PTSD and depression share many symptoms and under the right circumstances, a person with PTSD can also spiral into depression or vice versa. Some of the most common symptoms for both of these diseases are feelings of hopelessness, loss of appetite, feeling down, insomnia, fatigue, and addiction. The aforementioned symptoms are just a few of the many symptoms that people with PTSD and depression share, but they also have many significant differences.

Symptoms unique to PTSD include flashbacks, impulses from reminders about the event, continuous remembrance of events though you are trying to resist thinking about them, and keeping your distance from people, places, activities, or any other memorabilia that may link to the traumatic incident are just a few of the symptoms that someone experiencing PTSD can go through.

However, the real question boils down to how PTSD can lead to depression or vice versa. To better understand the relationship between PTSD and depression you must first understand that there is a difference between feelings of depression and experiencing depressive symptoms. An obvious reaction to an unfair situation or some other traumatic event would be to feel down or sad. That being said, people who experience depressive symptoms do so under the minutest of details and this often happens spontaneously.

It is very common for people who suffer from PTSD to experience depressive symptoms. Depression often takes on as a result of the guilt that someone faces due to the traumatic incidents that occurred and how they find themselves somewhat responsible.

When depression tends to combine with other forms of mental disorders, it can often turn into a very catastrophic situation for the patient. Experiencing depression during PTSD can lead to drug abuse, suicidal tendencies, and deterioration of one’s mental health.

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The views and opinions expressed in this post and any associated articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect opinions or policies of eTherapyPro. These posts and articles are shared for your enjoyment and consideration. Read them or not at your sole discretion and liability. They are not intended to replace counseling services rendered by licensed professionals. Consult with your counselor before implementing any content from these articles into your life.

Living with an Anxiety Disorder

Living with an anxiety disorder that is not treated can be difficult. Anxiety triggers can make even easy tasks feel overwhelming, and they can make social encounters harder to navigate. The illness may get worse with time, making day-to-day living even more difficult.

If you suspect that you, or someone you care about, are struggling with living with an anxiety disorder, seeking professional help is crucial. Fortunately, numerous effective treatment options are available, and a diverse range of mental health professionals are ready to support you through your unique challenges. Don’t hesitate to seek help; there’s no need to suffer in silence when assistance is readily accessible. Remember, you are not alone in living with an anxiety disorder; anxiety is a common experience in our society, and professionals possess the tools and expertise to guide you through the pain and uncertainty. Specifically, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication are two frequently used and successful approaches.

With appropriate treatment, anxiety disorders become manageable. Ultimately, finding peace and happiness is possible. With the variety of treatment options available today, such as therapy, medication, and mindfulness techniques, you can discover a path that works for you. Help is closer than you think. Don’t delay; pick up the phone, send that message, or schedule an appointment online. Take the first step towards living with an anxiety disorder and reclaiming your life today. Remember, beginning treatment is a sign of strength, not weakness. By reaching out, you’re taking a proactive step towards a healthier and more fulfilling future, learning effective coping mechanisms, and managing your anxiety.

 

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Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this post and any associated articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of eTherapyPro. These posts and articles are shared for your enjoyment and consideration. Read them or not at your sole discretion and liability. They are not intended to replace counseling services rendered by licensed professionals. Consult with your counselor before implementing any content from these articles into your life.

What Types of Anxiety Treatment are Available in Etherapypro?

There are several effective methods for treating anxiety disorders. Some people may find success utilizing just one method, but most find a combination of techniques works best.

Several types of drugs are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. These vary in effectiveness and need to be prescribed by a medical doctor, such as a psychiatrist. Some of these drugs include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, tricyclics, and beta-blockers. Some of these drugs, such as benzodiazepines, can cause drowsiness and are highly addictive. All drugs have some side effects which should be considered.

A common way of treating anxiety disorders is with psychological counseling. This may include psychotherapy, CBT, or a combination of therapies. These may be in a group therapy setting or in individual sessions with the client and the counselor.

CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy is a popular and effective treatment method for anxiety disorders. This method aims to recognize and then change the thinking patterns associated with anxiety and associated feelings, decrease the occurrence of limited thinking, and change the way individuals react to their anxiety-triggering events.

Group therapy and support groups are another form of treatment for anxiety disorders. Meeting with other people who share your challenges can be helpful and supportive. Knowing you are not alone in these situations can provide strength to overcome and endure. These groups are often led by a mental health professional and are made up of others with a similar diagnosis. A group setting helps individuals stay accountable for reaching their goals and offers beneficial social support.

A new form of therapy has been gaining in popularity recently. Online counseling or online therapy are web-based companies designed to connect clients with counselors via the Internet. The counseling sessions are accomplished through messages, video calls, or voice calls between the therapist and the client. These services are routinely more affordable than traditional, in-office sessions, and are far more convenient. The flexibility to message your counselor at any time or any place is helpful for those who have a very busy schedule, have transportation difficulties, or live in remote areas. It also allows for more frequent interaction between the client and their counselor. They can communicate in the moment when life becomes challenging, rather than waiting for a pre-scheduled appointment.

Outside of the professional setting, there are other things that individuals can do on their own to help manage anxiety. These techniques are often taught by mental health professionals to their clients to use as a tool throughout their lives whenever they experience moments of anxiety. Having these tools readily available can give a person a sense of power over the anxiety disorder and allow them the ability to proceed with the challenges of daily life despite their history with an anxiety disorder.

Learning different methods to help a person relax can be very helpful in managing anxiety symptoms. These tools include relaxation techniques such as practicing mindfulness, guided imagery, and breathing techniques. Learning to slow and control your breathing is an excellent way to shift your focus and initiate relaxation.

Guided imagery is a technique that involves using your imagination to transport your mind to a calm and relaxing environment, allowing your mind to relax and the anxiety to pass. This can be done with another person present to guide you, or with a recorded audio track.

Mindfulness is the practice of living in the present moment. Focusing on the present moment can often pull a person who suffers from an anxiety disorder away from the memory, triggering emotions or events, and avoiding a panic attack. Consciously choosing to focus on the safety and pleasantness of the present moment can effectively mitigate an anxiety attack.

Mental distractions, such as puzzles, adult coloring books, or other hobbies can help a person find calm when dealing with anxiety.

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Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this post and any associated articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of eTherapyPro. These posts and articles are shared for your enjoyment and consideration. Read them or not at your sole discretion and liability. They are not intended to replace counseling services rendered by licensed professionals. Consult with your counselor before implementing any content from these articles into your life.

What types of professionals do treatment of anxiety disorders?

Best Anxiety Disorder Treatment:

Anxiety Disorder Treatment:
Many professionals are trained to treat people suffering from anxiety disorders. Some are more specialized than others and have more specific training. Others can treat a broader range of problems. Some are more easily accessible, due to location and affordability. The key is to find what works best for you in your unique situation. There isn’t one solution for all.

One way to start is with your school counselor or your family doctor. These are individuals that you likely already know and trust. They may be familiar with your situation and your medical history. They would be able to note any significant changes and be aware of any underlying concerns. They are trained to recognize the basic symptoms of mental health disorders and if they are not qualified to offer you anxiety disorders treatment, they can often refer you to someone who can.

A family doctor can run blood tests and complete a physical exam to rule out any additional medical conditions that may be contributing to your mental well-being. If your condition is minor, or temporary, they may be able to offer you anxiety disorder treatment, such as a prescription for medication.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication, that specializes in mental health. They can do blood tests, and a physical exam and offer treatment as it relates to your mental health. They can be more expensive than other types of mental health professionals and may not offer other forms of treatment that you may wish to try.

Psychologists, therapists, and counselors are trained mental health professionals, but not medical doctors. They do not prescribe medication. They offer talk therapy through individual or group sessions. Each professional has their areas of focus and usually specializes in different types of treatment.

Some factors to consider when selecting a mental health professional are:

    1. Cost: Different professionals charge different rates. The cost can vary by the education and experience of the professional, and by the type of treatment. For example, group therapy is usually less expensive than individual therapy sessions. The cost of the professional’s time is shared by all the group members rather than by just the individual. Online counseling is becoming more and more popular and it is typically much less expensive than in-office counseling.
    2. Convenience: It is important to select a course of anxiety disorder treatment that works with your lifestyle. Your success is dependent upon your ability to stay committed to your treatment plan and show up for your appointments. If your life is very busy, or you live somewhere remote, one option to consider is online therapy. With online therapy, you can connect with your counselor from your computer or mobile device, rather than having to go into a physical office for your scheduled sessions.
    3. Comfort: Talking about your emotions and mental health is very personal. If you are not comfortable with your counselor, you will not be as open, and your progress will be limited. It is important to find the right fit for your individual needs. There is more to a great mental health professional than just their credentials, or success rate. Talk to them, ask questions, and make sure they are a good match for you. Do you want to speak with someone of your gender? Does their age, or religious background make a difference to you? What matters is connecting with the right professional who will help you overcome your challenges and find your path to happiness.
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Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this post and any associated articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect opinions or policies of eTherapyPro. These posts and articles are shared for your enjoyment and consideration. Read them or not at your sole discretion and liability. They are not intended to replace counseling services rendered by licensed professionals. Consult with your counselor before implementing any content from these articles into your life.

Where do I go for Help?

If you think you or a loved one is suffering from an anxiety disorder it is important to seek professional help. There are many options out there, and with a little bit of research you should be able to find the right fit.

Often the first step people take on their road to recovering from an anxiety disorder is getting a diagnosis. Having a diagnosis is helpful because it can lead you to the most effective type of treatment for your particular type of disorder. Having a diagnosis can also be helpful when dealing with insurance, or when developing a school IEP (individual education plan) for a student.

There are many different diagnostic methods out there, but most involve answering a set of standardized questions and your answers are then evaluated by a trained professional. The mental health professional may have you complete these questions in their office, or at home and bring them in to their office after you have completed them. Depending on your situation, your counselor may suggest you see a medical doctor to rule out any additional physical illnesses that could be causing your symptoms.

 

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Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this post and any associated articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect opinions or policies of eTherapyPro. These posts and articles are shared for your enjoyment and consideration. Read them or not at your sole discretion and liability. They are not intended to replace counseling services rendered by licensed professionals. Consult with your counselor before implementing any content from these articles into your life.