Therapy for Depression and Anxiety

Depression (major depressive disorder) is a pervasive mood disorder causing persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. Anxiety disorders involve excessive, uncontrollable worry or fear that is often out of proportion to the situation. Common symptoms of depression include fatigue, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and even thoughts of death. Anxiety often brings physical signs like heart palpitations, trembling, restlessness, and muscle tension.

These conditions frequently co-occur – a person with major depression often also has generalized anxiety – and they share symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, and concentration problems. As a result, someone might face both deep fatigue and constant worry, making it hard to work, study, or enjoy relationships.

• Symptoms of Depression: persistent sadness or emptiness, loss of interest/pleasure, low energy, sleep or appetite changes, difficulty thinking, and feelings of worthlessness.
• Symptoms of Anxiety: excessive worry or fear, restlessness, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, muscle tension, and insomnia.
• Overlap: Many people experience both sets of symptoms (e.g., feeling hopeless while also feeling keyed-up or panicky). For instance, chronic stress or trauma may trigger both a depressive episode and an anxiety disorder, compounding difficulties in work or family life.

Depression and anxiety can manifest in diverse ways. A parent struggling with postpartum depression might withdraw from family or lash out at their partner, while a student with social anxiety may avoid classes or have panic attacks. Both can lead to serious impacts like strained relationships, poor school or job performance, and health problems. The good news is that evidence-based treatments (therapy, medication, lifestyle changes) are highly effective at reducing symptoms and restoring hope.

Modalities that can help with Depression & Anxiety

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Trauma-Focused Therapy
(if anxiety/depression linked to traumatic event(s))

Psychodynamic Therapy

Solution-Focused Therapy

Play Therapy (for children, typically)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)