Navigating the Fog: Understanding Anxiety and Depression

Over the years working as a therapist in mental health, I often see clients grappling with the intertwined challenges of anxiety and depression. It's crucial to understand that these aren't isolated experiences. Anxiety and depression frequently coexist. This creates a complex web of emotional distress making it difficult for a person to function and have a better quality of life.

What is anxiety? Anxiety, in its essence, is a future-oriented fear response. It whispers "what if?" and paints vivid pictures of potential catastrophes. We all tend to “what if” and think worst case scenarios (called catastrophizing) at times. People who have symptoms of depression get stuck in these think cycles causing a feedback loop

impacting a person on all planes emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual.

What is depression? Depression, on the other hand, often dwells in the past or present, casting a shadow of low mood, hopelessness, and diminished interest in life. People who have symptoms of depression struggle with having low energy often feeling fatigued, some report feeling weepy all the time, and some struggle with daily routines, work, school, and hygiene. They tend to isolate themselves from others further increasing the negative impact of anxiety and depression. Others may struggle with sleep causing them to sleep more or with falling asleep leading to insomnia. People may experience these on occasion put for the person struggling with clinical anxiety and depression there is no trigger that happens; they experience what they experience with no identifiable cause.

The interplay between anxiety and depression can be insidious. Anxiety might fuel rumination, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed and ultimately, depression. Conversely, depression can sap motivation, making it harder to engage in activities that would typically alleviate anxiety. People struggling with these symptoms may feel stuck or paralyzed impacting their ability to care for themselves, socialize, complete tasks at home or work, and possibly make poor choices or use unhealthy coping. They may be able to mask what is going on for a time but without support these symptoms could increases impacting quality of life and leading to hopelessness.

It’s important to emphasize that people are not alone. Many individuals experience this dual struggle. Therapy offers a safe space to explore these feelings, identify triggers, and develop coping strategies. The therapist and the client work together to challenge negative thought patterns, build resilience, cultivate self-compassion, and self-care. The therapist and client navigate treatment together in a safe, nonjudgmental space, with a goal of providing clients the ability to cope and live a better quality of life.

Some people struggle with seeking support or reaching out for help. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Seeking help could be reaching out to a friend, family member, one’s doctor, and seeking therapy. Small steps, like practicing mindfulness, engaging in physical activity, or simply connecting with a supportive friend, can make a significant difference. There is hope, and with the right support, people struggling can navigate the fog and reclaim their well-being.

This is for informational purposes only.   For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.

If you are having a mental health emergency, seek help right away.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 9-8-8 as the national number for suicide prevention and mental health crises.  Call or text 988 for help.

Mobile Crisis Assessment Team (MCAT)(315) 732-6228 or (844) 732-622824-Hours a Day, 7-Days a Week