Many people with anxiety and related disorders also experience problems related to low/depressed mood. For some people, depression is a result of the impact that anxiety and related avoidance behaviors have on their lives. For others, depression is a separate problem that can make managing anxiety more challenging. Problems with low mood can range from mild to severe, with some individuals having symptoms that meet criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD).
Individuals with MDD can experience a range of symptoms, including depressed mood and/or a loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks. In addition, these feelings are accompanied at least some of the following symptoms: changes in appetite or weight, sleep disruption (sleeping too little or too much), feeling restless or slowed down, fatigue/low energy, feelings of worthlessness and/or excessive feelings of guilt, difficulties with concentration or decision making, and thoughts about death or suicide.
Our providers are trained in the interventions for depression that have been found to be most effective for treating these symptoms, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (e.g., behavioral activation, cognitive therapy) and medication.
