Donna L Brogan.com

Anxiety disorders cover a number of disorders, such as panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social phobia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.  However, all of these medical conditions can lead to even more health and emotional problems, so treatment  may be necessary in a number of areas. 

Depression is a medical condition that may develop. While many people carelessly use the term depression to describe an intense sadness, it is more than just a day of being upset about something. Depression can completely stop you from living your life. If you are worried that you may be depressed,see your doctor immediately.

There are a number of symptoms associated with depression that you may experience. Some of these symptons are loss of appetite, increase in appetite, having no sexual energy, muscle aches and pains, inability to concentrate, feeling afraid or confused, being easily angered, not caring about things you used to love, not being able to pinpoint why you feel sad, hating yourself, and constantly thinking about death.  If you are experiencing three or more of these symptoms on a daily basis, you should see your doctor right away.

In the worse case scenario, depression can lead to thoughts of suicide. If you have thought about killing yourself, even once, you should get help right away. Tell someone you love or call 9-1-1 or a local hotline for support. If you cannot do these things, at least go to a public place. Give yourself some time to think about things before making any decisions.

Remember, depression is a real medical illness. Several million Americans suffer from depression at some point or another, and it can affect any age, gender, race, or religion. Treatment for depression includes medication that inhibit certain receptors in the brain or therapy to help you talk about the things that are making you depressed.

In the end, it is important to realize that there is help and you can feel better. Being depressed is nothing to be ashamed of, it is a medical problem.  Modern medicine makes it possible for you to overcome your depression and your anxiety disorders in order to live a healthy life.  Don’t continue to be unhappy and hurting the people who love you.  Talk about it to someone.