Anxiety & Depression

Finding a therapist for mood disorders

mood disorders can be tough to cope with on your own.

Our brains possess an elaborate emotional guidance system, and sometimes that system is misguided. We understand how exhausting this can be when good days are few and bad days are unbearable.

You may already be familiar with the terms Anxiety and Depression, or admitting that they are a part of your struggle may inspire waves of deep shame.

Either way, we are here to help.

I’m feeling Anxious

Do you experience severe fear about specific things causing you to avoid responsibilities altogether? Do you have stress and continuously worry about areas in your life? You may be suffering from an anxiety disorder, and our team is here for you.

I’m feeling depressed

Do you have bursts of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts? Do you have a general sense of sadness and feeling like your life is worthless? You may be experiencing depression, and therapy with our experts could make a major difference.

Ready to connect with a Sacramento Therapist for Anxiety & Depression?

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Anxiety is Natural

Anxiety and fear are natural parts of life for everyone. Even stress is not always a bad thing. Anxiety exists to help warn the body of potential harm; it can motivate you to move quickly when you’re running late and it can help you make sure rent gets paid. However, there is a time when anxiety goes from helpful to harmful.

WHEN ANXIETY
BECOMES A PROBLEM

From fears about impending work failures to strains in personal relationships, anxiety can stunt your success and replace it with worry. When life consumes you with anxious thoughts and constant doubt, it can fade your excitement towards planning a future.
Anxiety can coax you to into avoiding things that spike your blood pressure. If you have irrational fears about planes, you might be less likely to visit family a few states away. You might start to make decisions that work in favor of your worries, not towards your future. As they say, if we aren't uncomfortable, we aren't growing; this is something we miss out on when putting our anxiety first.
Once having experienced anxiety or panic attacks, you may no longer find yourself relaxing or enjoying yourself in the same situations. You may feel uncertain of where the worry is coming from, but you feel it immensely. Anxious feelings can make you feel misunderstood in social settings. You may find it easier to pull away from others, increasing your isolation.

If anxiety is starting to take over your daily life and pull you from your responsibilities, therapy can help you take back control.

Sadness is Natural

Sadness is unavoidable, and everyone will experience it at some point in their life. Often, sadness and depression are confused or used interchangeably, which isn't true. One of the main differences is that sadness is only temporary; depression lingers and can seem to create a fog over your life.

WHEN DEPRESSION BECOMES A PROBLEM

Those with depression may have a hard time enjoying things that used to bring them joy. These things can range from career, sports, hobbies to sex. When you acknowledge this feeling, you may start to withdraw from them and increase the effects of your depression.
When dealing with depression, it can feel like your thoughts are uncontrollable and steer towards negativity. You may feel hopeless and stuck in guilt and critical self-talk. It can be common to start withdrawing from others. It can be very difficult for you to pick yourself up and try to encourage positive change on your own.
Severe and untreated depression can lead to more suicidal thoughts. At it's extreme, you may begin to plan suicidal attempts or feel the world would be better if you aren't around. These are intense symptoms of depression that can be overcome with therapy. Studies show that when those with depression seek out therapy, hope and self-worth can be regained.

If depression is starting to take over your daily life and pull you from your responsibilities, therapy can help you take back control.

Anxiety & Depression CAN Often Look Similar

Fatigue

Both anxiety and depression can leave you feeling drained. Whether you lack energy from exerting so much toward your worries or are tired continuously with little motivation, this can make a mood disorder excruciating. Feeling this way can lead you to place important self-care and daily chores on the back burner.

Sleep and Nutrition

Sleep is the ultimate recharge for the body; when your quality and quantity of sleep worsen, your functioning will go with it. Mood disorders can change your eating habits; whether you consume less or more, both can cause health problems. You may notice these deficiencies taking a severe toll on your mood and overall wellbeing.

Frequently asked questions

Many symptoms of anxiety are related to different underlying or co-occurring problems. Only a trained mental health professional can provide you with an anxiety disorder diagnosis. Whether you related to all or some of the text above, it may be beneficial to connect with one of our experts.
Many different internal or external factors can cause depression, making it difficult to diagnose. It's essential to receive an evaluation from a medical provider to rule out other causes. If you feel connected to the words on this page, it might a good time to talk to one of our experts.
Yes, anxiety and depression can occur simultaneously. 45% of individuals are estimated to have more than one mental health condition. Although they have different symptoms they require similar treatment, life management tools, and exercises.
There is no single test for diagnosing mood disorders, although you may find a tool like the Beck Depression Inventory or the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale to be helpful. Guidance for diagnosis is found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, which your therapist will use to categorize the symptoms you’re experiencing. Try to be as open and honest with your therapist to ensure a proper diagnosis and relevant treatment plan.
For mood disorders, a good rule of thumb is if the symptoms last for more than two weeks, it may indicate that you may have anxiety, depression, or both. If you have problems sleeping, unexplained emotional changes, decreased interest in things you care about, overwhelming feelings of hopelessness, know you aren't alone! Seeking a therapist can be the best way to address these concerns.
Anxiety and depression are both mood disorders meaning there is common ground when it comes to treatment. The most common course of treatment includes talk therapy, medication, or both. The approach your therapist takes can be very similar for these mental health disorders, although treatment will always be tailored to your unique needs and challenges. You can find out common modalities used in one-on-one counseling here.