Anxiety and Depression
Don't Believe the Lies...
You're not attractive enough, smart enough, strong enough, successful enough, you will never amount to anything...Do these thoughts sound familiar? If so, unfortunately, you have fallen victim to your own negative thinking and self sabotage, and when negative thinking is left uncontrolled for too long, we can soon begin to experience symptoms of anxiety and/or depression.
Anxiety and depression can have many roots, but a common denominator of both is that we fail to see ourselves as we should. We find ourselves consumed with perfectionism, stuck in comparisons, sensitive to criticism, and ultimately we become our own worst enemy. We lose faith in ourselves, and only see darkness led by struggle as predictable outcomes for our future. We may internally crave connection but choose isolation as a way to cope, which fuels anxious thoughts and depressive symptoms.’
Common Signs to Look For:
Anxiety and depression are two common mental health conditions that can significantly impact an individual's well-being. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for seeking appropriate support and treatment. Here are some signs that may indicate if you are experiencing anxiety or depression:
Anxiety:
Excessive worry or racing thoughts that are difficult to control.
Restlessness or feeling on edge.
Feeling irritable or easily agitated.
Muscle tension, trembling, or feeling physically tense.
Difficulty concentrating or experiencing mind going blank.
Panic attacks, which involve sudden intense fear, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or a sense of impending doom.
Avoidance of certain situations or places due to intense fear or anxiety.
Depression:
Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed.
Significant changes in appetite, resulting in weight loss or gain.
Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping.
Fatigue or loss of energy, even with minimal exertion.
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering details.
Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.
It's important to note that these symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, and everyone's experience may be different.
“The only way to overcome negative thoughts and destructive emotions is to develop opposing, positive emotions that are stronger and more powerful."
— Dalai Lama
“Perfectionism is a 20-ton shield that we lug around thinking it will protect us, when in fact, it's the thing that is really preventing us from being seen and taking flight."
— Brene Brown
“You will never become who you want to be if you keep blaming everyone else for who you are now.”
— Unknown