MOOD DISORDERS

Mood Disorders are a variety of mental health disorders characterized by a disturbance in a person's mood, emotional state and/or affect. I specialize specifically in the treatment of Depressive Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. There are many different factors in the cause of these disorders to include family history, trauma or stress, major life changes, physical illness, and biology (such as brain structure/function or hereditary). 

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There are also many different types of depression and anxiety. However, I'd like to share with you information on Major Depressive Disorder as it is extremely important to know the signs and seek help if you experience the following symptoms: Feelings of sadness most of the day or nearly every day, lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, loss of appetite or overeating, weight gain or loss, loss of interest in pleasurable activities or once enjoyed hobbies, sleeping too much or too little, difficulty focusing or concentrating and possibly frequent thoughts of death or suicide.

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*If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or urges to harm yourself or someone else please call 911 or visit your local Emergency Department. Crisis support is available on my resources page. 

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The most common form of anxiety is known as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Don't suffer through this alone! People who have GAD experience persistent, excessive and uncontrollable worry more days than not for at least 6 months. You may experience constant apprehension, the unrelenting weight of expectations, overwhelming racing thoughts, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and difficulty falling or staying asleep. 

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The most beneficial evidenced based forms of treatment for Depression and Anxiety Disorders are those utilizing both cognitive and behavioral strategies such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Psychodynamic, Interpersonal and EMDR Therapy has also been found to be highly impactful.

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Remember, you don't have to know exactly how to describe what you are thinking or feeling to seek help or to know that you need support. I am hear to listen, make sense of things and help you understand what is happening...