Even before the outbreak of the coronavirus, more and more people all over the world have been struggling with
depression and anxiety. The statistics are alarming and it seems life is an ongoing struggle for so many of us. If you are feeling anxious and depressed, there are things you can do to help yourself. There is no need to allow worry and sadness to continue. Moreover, you should know that you are not alone.
Putting things into context
Let’s face it — life right now is unpredictable and overwhelming. Demands increase constantly. If you have children, you have to make sure they are able to take all of their classes. The economy is crashing and work for many people is uncertain.
These are difficult times, and it is normal to feel
anxious and sad. However, if we broaden our view and look at the pre-pandemic statistics, we will see anxiety and depression were already occurring at high numbers in the USA and around the globe.
Anxiety Statistics
Anxiety is the most common mental disorder,
affecting approximately 40 million adults in the U.S., or 18.1% of the population each year. Anxiety disorders develop as a result of a complex set of factors, including genetics, chemistry in the brain, personality, and life events. Anxiety is highly treatable, although only 36.9% of those suffering from anxiety seek treatment.
Depression Statistics
Worldwide, more than
264 million people are living with depression. In 2014 in the USA, around 15.7 million adults aged 18 or older reported having at least one depressive episode.
Kids can also get
anxious and depressed. If your child or teenager seems to be struggling, it is important to find care for them. Therapy can be very effective in teaching children and teens how to better manage their thoughts and feelings. Therapy also teaches children valuable techniques that will allow them to cope with stress and build on their inner strengths.
Technology: the good and the bad
We live in a time when we have access to all information all the time. We also have constant access to each other.
This can be an enormous blessing, but it can also hurt us. We carry around our phones, take pictures of ourselves and our surroundings, and then upload these images to social platforms where they can be viewed, liked … or ignored.
This situation places us in a vulnerable position.
Research shows Facebook can make people sad. If we are always concerned about what happens or what doesn’t happen on social media this will affect how we feel. When this happens, we ultimately have little control over our own emotions.
What you can do to manage anxiety and depression
There are many things you can do to manage anxiety and depression
- If social media is causing sadness or anxiety, limit your use.
- Take breaks throughout the day to re-group. If you feel you’re slipping emotionally, take a break to bring yourself back into balance. You can leave the room and take a few deep breaths. If you are alone at home, give yourself a few minutes away from work or chores to give yourself the space you need. When you are dealing with stress, finding something pleasurable to do every single day is important.
- Learn to say no. Boundaries are especially important for our mental health. We are only given so much energy and time each day, and it is up to us to decide how to use it.
- Make time to connect to people who are important to you. Take time to connect with those that matter. If you are anxious or depressed, connecting and talking with supportive friends and loved ones will help you build strength
Don’t wait to start therapy
If you are struggling, even a few
therapy sessions will help. Connecting with a therapist will help you learn tools that reduce both anxiety and depression. There is also the opportunity to uncover potential underlying issues that can be associated with present-day anxiety and depression. Therapy is a safe place to discuss your feelings and concerns with a supportive person who cares.
Reach out for help
For anxiety therapy in Overland Park with
Caryn Hess,
get in touch today. Call today, or fill out the contact form for a complimentary consultation and take the first step to a truly liberated life.
Online therapy is available.
