When Should You Seek Professional Help for Depression or Anxiety?
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problem among American adults. Although they affect approximately 18% of people over the age of 18 (roughly 40 million adults), less than half seek professional treatment. While some people may be at a higher risk for developing anxiety disorders and depression than others, the truth is that anxiety and depression can affect anyone.
There’s often a lot of shame and stigma associated with mental health issues like depression, but getting professional help is essential for recovery, and you shouldn’t suffer in silence. At Apex Medical Professionals, our doctors Walid Elkhalili, MD, Basel Batarseh, MD, and the medical team, offer compassionate treatment and counseling services in Fair Lawn, NJ, for anxiety and depression.
If you’re not sure where to find help or whether your symptoms require professional treatment, here are some essential facts about depression and anxiety.
Signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression
Anxiety and depression affect everyone differently. Many people experience what’s known as “high functioning depression,” where everything seems fine on the surface, and friends and professional colleagues have no idea that the person is struggling.
People with high functioning depression can have high stakes, demanding jobs at which they often excel. They may look “normal” and may even appear happy and engaged to the people in their life. However, getting through a typical day and maintaining a facade of normalcy is usually physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting.
There are different types of depression, but some of the most common signs and symptoms include:
- Unexplained feelings of sadness and hopelessness
- Mood swings and emotional outbursts
- Loss of interest in hobbies and day to day activities
- Social isolation
- Feelings of shame and worthlessness
- Problems sleeping
- Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
- Sexual dysfunction/loss of sex drive
- Difficulty focusing and loss of concentration
- Suicidal thoughts
- Fatigue
- Chronic back pain or headaches
Some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression can overlap, and like depression, there are several different categories of anxiety, but some of the main symptoms include:
- Uncontrollable feelings of panic and worry
- Obsessive thoughts
- Unexplained nervousness
- Restlessness
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
- Fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- GI (gastrointestinal problems)
- Sleep problems
If you’re struggling with symptoms of depression and anxiety, please don’t hesitate to seek professional help, especially if you have suicidal thoughts or feelings.
How magnesium infusion can help
Recent studies have found that magnesium, an essential nutrient for human health, may also help supplement treatment and provide relief for some of the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Diet is your primary source of magnesium, but like other essential minerals and nutrients, many people don’t get enough magnesium through diet alone. Magnesium infusions provide a dose of directly to the bloodstream, so it’s a great way to make up for magnesium deficits in your diet.
Magnesium plays a vital role in healthy brain function, particularly in regulating crucial factors like blood pressure and your body’s response to stress. Magnesium has also been found to aid with insomnia and promote better sleep, a significant side effect of both anxiety and depression.
Our doctors will provide a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms and make recommendations based on your needs.
If you or a loved one are suffering from anxiety or depression, we can help. For more information about the benefits of magnesium infusion therapy for anxiety and depression, contact Apex Medical Professionals to request an appointment.