WHAT IS ANXIETY? WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns clients come to me for counselling.
Anxiety is defined as excessive worry, fear and dread about everyday situations. Anxiety can often come and go and is not generally persistent, though it may be a returning concern. For some, anxiety can lead to panic attacks.

Feeling anxious can lead to experiencing physical symptoms in the body for example; upset belly, diarrhoea, sweating, shaking and rapid heartbeat. Can lead to panic attacks. Anxiety can also lead to avoidance behaviours and social anxiety, where people avoid being near others, socialising or connecting with others, and avoiding certain activities so as not to bring on feelings of anxiety.
Anxiety can be debilitating and exhausting and impacting an individual’s daily life and life satisfaction.

Depression

Depression is more persistent and is defined as prolonged feelings of sadness, consistent low moods, feelings of worthlessness, apathy and hopelessness. Often there is a loss of interest in socialising or connecting with others or engaging in activities that used to be enjoyed. Depression can lead to physical symptoms, such as sleep disturbance, changes in appetite, fatigue.

For some experiencing depression, there might be suicidal thoughts. (Bernie has professional training in Suicide Intervention Skills)

Anxiety and depression can occur together.

And both anxiety and depression can significantly diminish daily functioning, including sleep and appetite, cause fatigue, difficulty concentrating and create physical pain in the body.

Counselling provides a safe and non-judgmental space to help understand and lessen symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Counselling helps to:

Identify personal triggers. Challenges unhelpful or irrational thoughts.

Offers practical personalised coping strategies to help regain control of your life. Helps to build emotional and psychological resilience.

Helps to foster motivation and bring clarity to your direction in life.

Please Note:

If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, it is important to seek support from a healthcare professional.

For those experiencing depression, I often also refer them to see their GP for medical support.

Resources & Helpful Links

Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636 Griefline - 1300 845 745
Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467 Mental Health Access Line NSW 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732