Mixed Anxiety-Depression Treatment

Anxiety disorders and depression are conditions that often co-exist, according to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health. For instance, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) are anxiety conditions that may combine with mild to severe depression--a debilitating mix, which can make life extremely difficult for the affected person.

Fortunately, there exist a number of ways mixed anxiety and depression can be treated. Examining the options available will prove useful in deciding on a treatment plan with a doctor.

Therapy

• According to NIMH, there are two main types of therapy which are effective in treating the combination of anxiety and depression. Each of these offers a unique treatment approach to managing the conditions.

  Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a front-line therapeutic approach to treating depression as well as anxiety. This type of treatment entails working with a therapist in talk sessions in order to modify negative patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to the disorders.

  Interpersonal therapy (IPT) concentrates on working on problematic or strained personal relationships that may be contributing to anxiety and depression. The goal of IPT is to alleviate depression and anxiety by helping to identify patterns in interpersonal relationships that exacerbate the conditions, and reduce or eliminate these patterns.

Medications

• Sometimes therapy options like CBT or IPT just aren't enough to help if the anxiety and depression disorders are severe. In these instances, medications are commonly prescribed to treat both illnesses and manage their symptoms. Both NIMH and the Anxiety Disorders Association of America state that medications are useful tools in such cases.

  In the antidepressant family of drugs, there exist several medications which are often prescribed to treat depression and anxiety at the same time. Medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and venlafaxine (Effexor) are examples of antidepressants used for this purpose. However, they can take from a week to over a month to begin working, so an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) drug is sometimes prescribed short-term.

  Benzodiazepines are indicated in the treatment of moderate to severe anxiety, and unlike antidepressants, begin working within an hour after taking the first dose. They are central nervous system depressants, and work by causing a calming brain chemicals called GABA to remain in the system. The most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines are alprazolam (Xanax XR), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin), and diazepam (Valium). Caution should be used when taking these medications, since they are habit-forming and have some potential for abuse.

Other Treatments

• The ADDA lists a number of treatments other than professional psychotherapy and medications. Many of these are cost-free, and can be explored in a comfortable environment, such as the home.

  Exercise is one form of treatment stated by the ADDA as having positive impacts on both anxiety and depression. Regular exercise not only increases overall physical and mental health, it releases calming chemicals in the brain, like endorphins, the body's natural "reward" system for physical activity. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, are also recommended. These should be practiced in a comfortable environment for maximum benefit.

  Support exists for those suffering from anxiety and depression. The ADDA suggests openly discussing with family and friends how they can be helpful in managing the symptoms, as well as exploring support groups for additional help.