Life is tough. It can knock us down, and leave us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Many of us have been through unimaginable things, and we are just trying to cope in whatever way we can. In the shame cycle, we can turn on ourselves and get stuck in harmful patterns that only hurt us more.
Maybe you don’t completely understand why you’re so sad. Or maybe there is something that happened - a life transition or some other event - that you can point to for why you are experiencing this depression and anxiety right now. Still, you are deep in the trenches. The worry that, “there is no way out of this,” keeps you up at night and the days are a struggle between fear, exhaustion, and lack of motivation. Worst of all, you feel alone in your struggles. No one else seems to have these issues. “Am I crazy?” you ask yourself.
Depression and Anxiety are super common.
Anxiety is the most common mental health concern in the US. 40 million adults or 18% of Americans live with some form of anxiety disorder. 15.7 million adults have experienced a major depressive episode in the past year. It is very common for people to experience both anxiety and depression. Yet, less than half of those living with anxiety and depression receive treatment largely because of the stigma and the belief that they should be able to handle it on their own.
In fact, often the symptoms of anxiety and depression themselves can keep people from getting the help they need. Lack of motivation, hopeless outlook, and fear about the logistics, paying for therapy, and being shamed and judged by others can all be exasperated by the symptoms of anxiety and depression. When we are in that frame of mind, we can see the risks of seeking help as far greater than they actually are. Don’t get me wrong - it is super vulnerable to share with someone that you are struggling when there is still a stigma attached to having mental illness. The problem is that often pushing down and ignoring these issues can actually increase symptoms.
There is Hope
Psychotherapy has been proven to be an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Research shows that therapy can work better and more long-term than medication alone, leading to fewer recurrences of anxiety and depression. With help and support, you will experience deeper awareness, breakthroughs in understanding, and discover the joy in the midst of the pain.
I have been working with clients for two and a half years leading support groups for adult survivors of sexual abuse, at an addiction recovery center, and seeing individual clients at an affordable counseling center as well as in private practice. I have successfully treated dozens of clients experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. My therapy sessions typically last 50 minutes. In an average therapy session, we will talk through what is going on in your life, with a particular focus on what is most pressing or distressing for you right now. Sometimes you just need to hear yourself talk to gain insight into where you are and what you need. Having an outside perspective can be helpful in allowing you to see yourself more clearly.
