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Techiques to Overcome Depression & Anxiety

Anxiety and depression are what are known as comorbid disorders; they are often both present in the same individual. Usually, you will develop one and then develop the other a short time later. Because many of the causes are the same (i.e., serotonin deficiency, stress, lack of proper nutrition or sleep, and lack of support), treatments are usually also similar.

  1. Medications

    • One of the most common techniques to overcome depression and anxiety is medication. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed for both conditions and work to stimulate the areas of the brain that register serotonin. Serotonin is a brain chemical that helps control mood and feelings of calm. When the brain isn't registering enough serotonin, it can lead to depression or anxiety.

    Therapy

    • While not as common as medications, therapy has also been used as a technique to overcome anxiety and depression. Depression and anxiety may not always be routed in a chemical imbalance, which can be treated with medications. Sometimes current or previous life events, or worry about the future, can lead to near-constant feelings of depression or anxiety. Seeing a licensed therapist can help you come to terms with, and then overcome, these feelings.

    Nutrition and Exercise

    • Proper nutrition and exercise can also help you overcome depression and anxiety. Exercise releases dopamine into the body naturally, which can have a positive effect on mood. Getting the right amount of nutrients, and cutting back on sweets, caffeine and preservatives, can also help you manage depression and anxiety. Improving both your diet and level of physical fitness may also help you sleep better, which can help you to get past these conditions.

    Relaxation Techniques

    • Learning relaxation techniques may be useful. Being able to enter a relaxed state when you are suffering from an anxiety or depression episode can help you recover faster. It can also help reduce the severity of those feelings. Deep-breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, guided imagery and aromatherapy are all useful techniques to overcome depression and anxiety.

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